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Australia isn’t just home to the great outback—it is also a sanctuary of beautiful beaches, lakes, rivers, and other waterways.  Its coasts are home to many water-loving Australians. Because of this, water sports like stand-up paddle boarding are thriving.

If you haven’t tried stand-up paddle boarding yet, then you are in luck. Australia is made up of states and territories that are SUP-friendly. It would be a great place to enjoy paddle boarding, and buy stand-up paddle boards for sale too!

In this article, we will show you some of the top stand-up paddle boarding spots in Australia. We will also share some insight about the different kinds of SUPs, and where to find the best and most affordable ones!

SUP: Stand-up Paddle Boards Defined

According to Wikipedia, stand-up paddle boarding is a water sport born from surfing with modern roots in Hawaii. A paddle boarder stands up on a large board and uses a paddle to navigate through the water.

Also called SUPs, stand-up paddle boards have different types. They would usually differ in material and purpose. For example, an inflatable stand-up paddle board is made from a drop-stitch core and covered with layers of PVC. Because of its inflatable nature, it is the most portable type of SUP out there. On the other hand, there are also paddle boards that are made from materials like EPS (expanded polystyrene) foams, wood, and fiberglass.

Although they may be different in make and purpose, one thing is common among stand-up paddle boards—you can launch them almost anywhere!

Different Types of Stand-up Paddleboards

When choosing a stand-up paddleboard, the rider must consider their size and level of experience. They must also know what type of riding they’re doing—will they use it for cruising? Do they want to get to longer distances on their board? Or maybe they’re a SUP expert who’s looking for a board to cut through waves.

These are some of the things one must consider. But whatever level and activity they’re using it for, there’s always a stand-up paddle board for that.  

Cruising paddleboards. This type of SUP is also known as “hybrid boards”. Cruising boards are thicker, wider, and more stable than most types. They are usually used to “cruise” along calm waters, but they can handle some action too!

A con, though, would be the longer and narrower cruising boards that can be quite challenging for newbies. This kind of cruising SUPs glide better but are harder to turn because of their more immersed bow and stern.

Touring paddleboards. These boards are made for touring long distances on the water. They have a long and narrow form which makes up for easier and more efficient paddling. They are also set up with a displacement hull for better tracking. Most SUP touring boards that are longer and narrower are used by racers and advanced paddle boarders.

Surfing paddleboards. This type of stand-up paddle board is used for wave riding. It is shorter, has a narrower tail, and elevated rocker. These features make it the perfect SUP for cutting through waves.

Aside from their different types, stand-up paddle boards also differ in materials used. There are inflatable stand-up paddle boards, rigid boards made from fiberglass/polyester/premium fiberglass and epoxy resin, and soft boards made from dense foams like EPS or XPE.

Top Stand-up Paddleboarding Spots in Australia

Now that you have a bit of an idea about SUPs, let’s jump to the good part—the best spots to go paddle boarding in Australia!

Being lined with many beautiful waterways, it is impossible to choose just one spot. So, we have curated a few spots for each territory that we know many people love!

Byron Bay, New South Wales

We’re starting off this list with a coastal town in NSW, home to Australia’s iconic beaches and astounding festivals—Byron Bay. When it comes to spots to go stand-up paddleboarding in Australia, Byron Bay is definitely a main-stay.

Byron Bay has something for everyone. Waves coming from the South Pacific Ocean coast are perfect for thrill-seekers. It also offers calm waters along the Richmond River for those who only want to relax and cruise around.

Aside from this, Byron Bay is also home to marine wildlife, and paddle boarders can enjoy sightings of fish, dolphins, sharks, turtles, and even whales!

You can also enjoy getting SUP lessons from various SUP schools on the coast. If you don’t have your own stand-up paddle board, you can always rent from the many rental shops, or join guided tours that will let you experience Byron Bay’s natural landscape.   

Lord Howe Island, New South Wales

Lord Howe Island is a small town in the Tasman Sea and is just less than a 2-hour flight away from Sydney. It is listed as a World Heritage and is dubbed as one of the world’s best destinations.

With its picturesque views, tropical forests, and white-sand beaches, Lord Howe has become a well-loved destination both by locals and tourists. Its mix of warm tropical and cool temperate ocean currents make up its pristine waters.

It is a paddler’s paradise for its calm currents, beautiful scenery, and lagoons that are home to marine wildlife.

Currumbin Creek, Queensland

Currumbin Creek is a beachfront community that serves as a link between Queensland’s Rainforest Mountains and oceans. The creek is protected from the harsh ocean waves, making it a suitable SUPing spot for newbies and families who just want to unwind!

The community is also home to warm locals and incredible SUP festivals that can serve as a highlight of your visit. If you have your own inflatable stand-up paddleboard, then you can simply hop on and enjoy the steady waters. But if you’re trying SUPing for the first time, then you can get lessons from SUP schools around the coast.

Budds Beach, Surfers Paradise

Budd’s Beach is a gem hidden in the heart of Surfers Paradise on the Gold Coast. It is ways away from the beach’s main surf break and is a great flatwater spot to go SUPing.

(photo from corbettandco.com.au) 

The beach is popular among locals, honeymooners, and retirees. This is because it serves as a resting place away from the adrenaline and excitement of Surfers Paradise. SUPers enjoy calm sessions taking in sights of the area’s mix of city life and serene parks.  

Southwest National Park, Tasmania

Tasmania’s largest area of wilderness is covered by the Southwest National Park. It is a remote park in the heart of the Tasmanian Wilderness and World Heritage Area and is lined with jagged mountains, moorlands, rainforests, and paddle-friendly waterways.

The park is home to the vast stretches of Lake Gordon and Lake Pedder where SUPers can enjoy a cruise on their inflatable SUPs. Aside from paddle boarding, Southwest National Park is teeming with activities like wilderness walks, boat trips, and scenic drives.

Swan River, Perth

Swan River is a great mix of Perth’s bustling city life and peaceful skyline. Also known as Perth’s playground, it is a popular location for various watersports, picnics, food crawls, and more.

Its calm waters make it a perfect destination for SUP sessions, with occasional sightings of marine life. You can get stand-up paddle boarding lessons or gear up on a SUP of your own!

Apollo Bay, Great Ocean Road

Last but definitely not the least on this list is Apollo Bay located at the foothills of the Otways, along the Great Ocean Road. The bay harnesses water from the South Ocean and its coast is home to petrified rainforests filled with waterfalls and crystal-clear waterways.

You can enjoy swimming, diving, and stand-up paddle boarding on its pristine coastal waters. If you paddle far enough, you can get up close to its local fur seal colonies, and have the time of your life!

Now, these are just some of the best spots to go SUPing in Australia. We’re sure there are many more amazing spots, but as long as you have the best stand-up paddleboard with you, then you can make any place the best spot too!

Buy Stand-up Paddleboards from The Boating Emporium

Now that you have an idea of where to go, you must be thinking “Where can I buy stand-up paddle boards in Australia?” Don’t fret because there are many online and offline watersports equipment distributors just like The Boating Emporium!

Through online stores like The Boating Emporium, you can buy your stand-up paddle board from the comfort of your own home (or anywhere, literally). We have partnered with brands like Inflation Marine, Atlantis, Waterborn, and Red Paddle to give you the best and most affordable inflatable and rigid SUPs in the market!

You can also get access to our stand-up paddleboard guide if you’re worried about what size stand-up paddleboard you should get. We offer not just quality SUPs, but our customer service is top-notch too!

So, the next time you’re looking for a stand-up paddleboard, just head on to our website! You can also check out our wide collection of watersports accessories and boating equipment that are available all year round!

For more information, kindly visit www.theboatingemporium.com.au, call us at 1300-987-441, or send us a message on our Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram pages!

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The Best Inflatable Pontoons in Australia 2022

One of the many good things about living in Australia is being surrounded by beautiful beaches, rivers, and lakes. It’s filled with water sports and activities that can be enjoyed by people of all ages.

It is also because of the surge in these water activities that a lot have turned to venture into manufacturing water sports accessories, boating gear and equipment, and water inflatables.

There is a myriad of choices when it comes to water sports accessories, and one is making waves for its variety and innovation—the inflatable pontoon!

What is an Inflatable Pontoon?

By definition, a pontoon is a “flat-bottomed boat or hollow metal cylinder used with others to support a temporary bridge or floating landing stage”. An inflatable pontoon also does all of these, only that they are, well, inflated with air.

Inflatable pontoons can be used to add buoyancy to a structure, hence the innovation of inflatable pontoon boats. There are different types of inflatable pontoon boats; frameless, framed, motorized, or propelled. These inflatable pontoon boats can be ridden across beaches, lakes, or rivers.

Another use of inflatable pontoons is as inflatable decks or docks. In this article, we will take a look at this type, and how the company Big Sky Innovations pioneered a new docking system that is centered on inflatable pontoons.

Inflatable Pontoons by Big Sky Innovations

Pontoons as we know them are used to add buoyancy to boats, and other watercraft. However, Big Sky Innovations had other things in mind. Through their creativity and continuous innovations, they were able to create the now-famous “Inflatable Pontoons”.

These inflatable pontoons are unlike the usual ones that you see on inflatable boats—they are made so you can “walk on water”.

It all started when founders (and husband-and-wife) Gavin and Lydia found it inconvenient to get into their boats all muddy and scratching their boat’s hull. To avoid soiling their boat, Gavin had to carry Lydia in, and soon, they were also doing it for family and friends.

These minor inconveniences then lead to an innovation that is now enjoyed by many in the Australian boating community. Their inflatable pontoons come in different shapes and sizes and are introduced to the world as parts of a new inflatable docking system.

Big Sky Innovations was founded in 2012 and is celebrating 10 years in the industry this year. In the span of a decade, they were able to produce inflatable pontoons that are portable, heavy-duty, and can be used in any body of water.

Their Inflatable Pontoons for sale are made from PVC horsetail material and can be inflated and assembled within 3-4 minutes. They currently have five types of inflatable pontoons available, from decks to walkways, and are continuously working on innovations.

Designed on the Gold Coast, Big Sky Innovations’ inflatable pontoon structures are used not only by hobbyists but also by sporting associations all over the world, and marine biologists working on the restoration of the Great Barrier Reef.

With a clientele as prominent as these, Big Sky Innovations is, without a doubt, committed to delivering inflatable pontoons that are user-friendly, durable, and worth investing in!

The Best Inflatable Pontoons from Big Sky Innovations

Now that you have a background on Big Sky Innovations and their products, let us now look at their inflatable pontoons for sale in Australia and other parts of the world!

Inflatable Pontoon Y Ski Pontoon

Price: 1,485.00

The Y Ski Pontoon is what BSI calls the “ultimate docking station for Jetskis”. You can easily park your jetski within the inflatable pontoon’s “Y” section and safely walk to and from your boat through its sturdy deck and walkways.

The Y Ski Pontoon is made from PVC horsetail and takes approximately 2 minutes to inflate and assemble. It is made to slide under the duckboard of a cruiser boat and designed to act as a deck extender, walkway, and parking for your jetski or tender.

Features and Benefits:

Designed specifically for docking jetskis.

Can be tied anywhere, but ideally, slides under the duckboard of most cruisers for safe and easy parking of a jetski within the 'Y' section.

Allows for a safe and easy way to tie a jetski to your boat.

Additional parking for tenders or water toys on either sides of the 'Y' section.

Elegant finishing created with an additional layer of EVA foam matting in teak wood.

Includes built-in anchor points on the top and underneath sides

Built-in 2mm thick ribbed rubber matting at crucial points for added protection

Ideal for most boats

Portable

Lightweight

Very robust

Very stable to walk on.

Easy to clean with just a hose off.

Quick & Easy to inflate/assemble and dis-assemble/deflate (approx 10mins).

Enable you to launch Water Sports safely from the pontoon.

Enable you to moor multiple boats or jet skis to the pontoon.

Eliminate getting wet when embarking or dis-embarking your boat.

Enables children, ladies, elderly passengers to get on and off your boat or jet ski safely and with ease.

Want to know more about the Y Ski Inflatable Pontoon? Click here!

Inflatable Pontoons Deck Extender

Price: $1,485.00

The Deck Extender Inflatable Pontoon is designed to do one thing; create more space in your boat. This inflatable deck extender is designed to let boaters enjoy more time outside of their boats to relax, fish, or bask under the sun.

The inflatable deck extender is also stable enough for you to walk on. Installed with 5 anchor lugs, this Inflatable Deck Extender from Big Sky Innovations is perfect for parking your jetskis, tenders, and other water toys.

Features and Benefits:

Portable

Lightweight

Very robust

Very stable to walk on.

Easy to clean with just a hose off.

Quick & easy to inflate/assemble and dis-assemble/deflate (approx 10mins).

Enable you to launch Water Sports safely from the pontoon.

Enable you to moor multiple boats or jet skis to the pontoon.

Eliminate getting wet when embarking or dis-embarking your boat.

Enables children, ladies, elderly passengers to get on and off your boat or jet ski safely and with ease.

Want to know more about the Inflatable Pontoons Deck Extender? Click here!

Inflatable Pontoons Straight Pontoon

Price: Starts at $1,550.00

Another model that comes from BSI’s Inflatable Pontoons collection is the Straight Pontoon. With a choice between a 5m and 8.5m platform, the Straight Pontoon is the ultimate docking station for your jet skis, ski boats, tenders, and other water toys.

The 5m straight inflatable pontoon is a sleek pontoon that provides parking for your watercraft and water toys and is ideal for ski boats and fishing boats that do not need a long walkway from water to shore.

On the other hand, the 8.5m straight pontoon has a full walkway that allows easier access when getting on and off your boat. It is also a favorite when it comes to launching off wakeboards, kneeboards, and water skis.

Features and Benefits:

A sleek straight pontoon

For safe, quick and easy parking of your boat/s on either sides of the pontoon

Additional parking for tenders, jetskis or water toys

Allows easy access on and off the side of your boat

Includes built-in anchor points

Built-in 2mm thick ribbed rubber matting at crucial points for added protection

A favourite amongst Watersport-enthusiasts for launching wakeboards, kneeboards, waterskis off the end

Ideal for Ski-boats, Fishing boats

Portable

Lightweight

Very robust

Very stable to walk on.

Easy to clean with just a hose off.

Quick & Easy to inflate/assemble and dis-assemble/deflate (approx 3-4mins).

Minimize the damage to your boat/jet ski by not beaching it on shore.

Enable you to launch Water Sports safely from the pontoon.

Enable you to moor multiple boats or jet skis to the pontoon.

Eliminate getting wet when embarking or dis-embarking your boat.

Eliminate getting mud or sand into your boat from wet & dirty feet.

Enables children, ladies, elderly passengers to get on and off your boat or jet ski safely and with ease.

Want to know more about Straight Pontoons? Click here!

Inflatable Pontoons Y Pontoon Dock Floating Platform

Price: Starts at $1,850.00

A larger version of the earlier Y Pontoon, the Y Pontoon Dock Floating Platform is a perfect parking space for your bowriders, jetskis, and other watercraft and toys. Its docking system is safe and easy, and both sides of the “Y” allows you to park 2 more boats on the side.

Both the 4.5m and 8.5m variants have sturdy walkways that allow the boater or the rider to get on and off the sides of their boat without breaking a sweat. Its long walkway also avoids your boat from getting soiled by mud, sand, and other unwanted materials.

Specifications:

Y-Pontoon 4.5m

Length: 4.5m

Width: 1.4m

Thickness: 0.2m

Weight: 26kg

Y-Pontoon 8.5m

Length: 8.5m

Width: 1.4m

Thickness: 0.2m

Weight: 42kg

Want to know more about the Y Pontoon Dock Floating Platform? Click here!

Inflatable Pontoons U Pontoon Dock Platform for Boats

Price: Starts at $1,950.00

The U Pontoon from BSI’s Inflatable Pontoons collections is a docking station best suitable for W-Hull boats, and pickle-forks, with additional space for smaller vessels like jetskis, tenders, et al.

Just like the Y Pontoon, the U Pontoon provides extra room on both sides of the “U”. The 5m pontoon has a sturdy 1.5 walkway for passengers’ easy access to and from the boat, while the 8.5m model has it in 5m.

With built-in anchor points and 2mm thick ribbed rubber matting protection, the U Pontoon is a compact accessory and one of the sturdiest platforms that can protect your boat from damage, while keeping it clean and accessible.

Features and Benefits:

Shaped as a ‘U’ this pontoon allows you to easily park your boat quickly in the centre of the ‘U’.

It also allows parking stations for another 2 boats or water toys on either side of the ‘U’.

This model provides access on and off your boat from the bow, and both sides of your boat.

Most of our clients with Pickle-fork or W-hull boats have purchased this model.

This model comes in 2 different sizes a 8.5mtr and a shorter version 4.5mtr.

Portable

Lightweight

Very robust

Very stable to walk on

Easy to clean with just a hose off

Quick & Easy to inflate/assemble and dis-assemble/deflate (approx 10mins)

Minimize the damage to your boat/jet ski by not beaching it on shore

Enable you to launch Water Sports safely from the pontoon

Enable you to moor multiple boats or jet skis to the pontoon

Eliminate getting wet when embarking or dis-embarking your boat

Eliminate getting mud or sand into your boat from wet & dirty feet

Enables children, ladies, elderly passengers to get on and off your boat or jet ski safely and with ease

Want to know more about the U Pontoon Dock Platform for Boats? Click here!

Inflatable Pontoons Pool Deck

Price: $3,500.00

Last but not least on this list is the Inflatable Pontoons Pool Deck. With 4 drink holders around the deck and a detachable net, the inflatable pool deck introduces a new and luxurious mix of hanging out and taking a dip in your pool, at the back of your boat!

The pool deck’s drink holders can also double to secure a 2.4m marquee shade for your deck. There are also 4 built-in anchor lugs where you can park tenders, jet skis, and water toys.

On top of that, you can also turn this pool deck into a deck extension by adding a Pool Insert in the middle. With its sturdy and heavy-duty materials, this simple pool deck can turn into the whole package all at once!

Want to know more about the Inflatable Pontoons Pool Deck? Click here!

Buy Inflatable Pontoons from The Boating Emporium

Just like Big Sky Innovations, The Boating Emporium strives to make innovative products like inflatable pontoons accessible to every water-loving Australian.

This is why we made sure to make their products easily available to everyone, by distributing them across the country. As official distributors of Big Sky Innovations’ Inflatable Pontoons, we ensure that our clients get only the best quality of products for their boats and other watersports accessories.

If you are looking for an online store with inflatable pontoons for sale, then you’re in luck! Just visit our website at www.theboatingemporium.com.au, or check out our collection of Inflatable Pontoons from Big Sky Innovations today!

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A Buyer’s Comprehensive Guide to Pedal Boats

Pedal boats are a unique way to explore the waters, with room for friends and family to pedal along. The boats cruise slowly enough that you can enjoy the sights and sounds of your surroundings, but fast enough to get from point A to point B. 

They might not be as agile as kayaks or as fast as motor boats, but pedalboats do not disappoint when it comes to giving a fun experience. Not only that, you can also enjoy your time on the water while burning some calories both at the same time! Sounds like a good deal, right?

If you want to know more about pedal boats, we put together a guide about pedal boats, from how they’re powered to what bodies of water you can pedal on. Check it out to learn more about these wonderful water vessels, and pedal on!

What are Pedal Boats?

Pedal boats are powered by pedals instead of motors. They are powered by the rider’s feet through a mechanical pedaling system. For the boat to move, the driver/drivers will have to sit back and pedal with their feet. There’s also a handle that acts as a steering wheel so the riders can change the boat’s direction.

There are pedal boats for sale that come with two sets of pedals, so two people can drive the boat together. Since pedal boats are operated manually through pedals instead of motors, they’re the epitome of environmentally friendly water transportation. They’re also a lot of fun, so it’s easy to see why people love them.

You have to pedal to move, so the first thing you’ll notice is how hard it is to move at a slow pace. However, once you get used to the physically demanding nature of pedal boating, you’ll really start to enjoy the ride. That’s also when you get some exercise in!

You can find pedal boats at local marinas and boatyards, or sometimes at festivals on the water. Some pedal boats come with pedals you can use for propulsion, while others have hand-pumps for propelling yourself. Most pedal boats are open-air, allowing you to enjoy the fresh air and view of your surroundings.

Also known as the “pedalo”, pedal boats come in different kinds, shapes and sizes. They are not the kind of boats that you can ride on tough waves, but they can definitely be enjoyed by friends and families who want to go out fishing, or even just enjoy a leisurely cruise around the lakes.

How to Choose the Best Pedal Boat

Buying a pedal boat isn’t an easy chore as it appears to be. If you really want to enjoy and make the most out of your time on the water, you have to be meticulous in choosing your pedal boat. Remember that you will be making a n investment, so you would want to find a pedal boat that will serve its purpose, and will last you a long time.

If not, then you will just be dealing with a floating plastic vessel that won’t do whatever you paid for—in short, it will be a total waste of money.

So, to officially start off this guide, let’s look at some things you should consider when choosing a pedal boat!

Type of Pedal Boat

There are two types of pedal boats—the manual and electric pedal boat. The manual pedal boat is the greener and more popular option, as it only needs a driver’s feet power to operate. The electric pedal boat, on the other hand, is powered by a battery and a motor. Electric pedal boats still have pedals, but they are aided with this componentry so your legs wouldn’t be as tired as when riding the manual one.

Considering what type of pedal boat what you need is essential before making your decision as there are advantages and disadvantages to both. Electric pedal boats, for one, will have parts that would need replacing. There are times that these kinds of pedal boats rely on their manufacturers to supply those parts, and when they discontinue making a specific model, chances are those parts wouldn’t be available as well. 

Manual pedal boats, on the other hand, are simpler and easier to maintain. It may just be a little tiring to operate, but it will get easier as you get the hang of it. However, manual pedaling alone might not let you cruise longer or faster. For that reason, you can add a trolling motor and just use it when you feel like you need to.

Purpose for Riding

Pedal boats exist in three kinds depending on their purpose—fishing, exploring, and novelty. Now, if you are reading this article, we would assume that you are looking for either a fishing or exploring pedal boat. If not, then maybe you’re looking for a novelty pedal boat that come in different shapes (like swans, etc.) that can be enjoyed by kids and can be used for rentals.

But, let’s try to differentiate these three.

Novelty pedal boats are usually used for rentals. They have all the same features as traditional pedal boats, but they’re designed to be easily removed and transferred between watersports venues or even theme parks. This means they don’t have all the storage compartments and fishing gear of traditional pedal boats. Instead, they have larger, open storage areas, which can make them more convenient for rentals.

Fishing pedal boats are designed for fishing, so they have rod holders and have large storage compartments. Some even have live bait wells so you can keep fishing when you’re not moving. Some fishing pedal boats for sale in Australia would have a slot for a trolling motor should you decide to mount one in the future.

An example is the Pelican Monaco DLX Angler Pedal Boat that has flush mount rod holders, built-in coolers, and can carry up to five passengers.

Exploring pedal boats are designed for exploring rivers, lakes, and the ocean. They are cheaper, and either have large windows, or are open-air so you can look around and take in the scenery. They might not have fishing attachments built-in when you buy it, but you can always buy them and attach them yourself.

Once you’ve narrowed down your purpose and need for a pedal boat, you can choose which kind is the best for you.

Size and Capacity

The size and capacity of a pedal boat should be one of your primary considerations when buying one. How many people would you like to fit in the boat? How much space do you need? Pedal boating is usually a social gathering among friends and family, so you would probably want a boat that can fit at least four to five people.

The larger the pedal boat, the more comfortable it will be to pedal, and the more space you’ll have to store personal items. The more people you can bring in, too. They are also easier to navigate in shallow water and on lakes with windy conditions.

An example is the Pelican Rainbow DLX Pedal Boat that can carry up to five passengers, and a max capacity of 800lbs.

However, there are also pedal boats that are designed for only one passenger. But because they are smaller, the more difficult it will be to pedal and the less room you’ll have to store personal items.

But overall, the focus should be on how comfortable you (and passengers) will be, and if you’ll have enough room sit back, relax, and move around.

Make and Quality

Knowing what materials make up the pedal boat is also an essential part. For example, if you plan to take the pedal boat on the ocean, then you should choose one that’s made from saltwater-resistant materials.

Some pedal boats are inflatable, while some are crafted from hard plastics. The best and most durable materials would be lightweight and impact resistant. Quality of the pedal boat and its parts are crucial too.

When looking for a pedal boat, you would want one that has comfortable pedals, and a seat that’s spacious enough for all heights (one that has adjustable seats should be the best choice for this reason). You would also want a steering rod that’s accessible and easy to operate.

Pedal Boat Accessories and Amenities

As we have stated earlier in this guide, pedal boating is usually a social or family gathering. You would expect to be out in the water for at least a few hours, so having accessible amenities in the boat is essential.

One accessory that is a must is a bimini or canopy top. While there are pedal boats that come with their own shade, there are still those that don’t. In that case, you can buy a bimini from trusted water sports accessories stores that provide them in the best quality.

Another thing to look for are adjustable and molded seats. Remember that you will be boarding different people with different heights, so it’s important that you’ll be able to adjust the seats so they can pedal comfortably.

Storage is very important too. Other than the fixed storage for your fishing gear, you would also want to look for a pedal boat that has a built-in cooler, drink holders (to enjoy that cold drink), and compartments with solid covers to make sure you have enough space to store your food and other essentials.

When you’ve made sure that these accessories are all in that pedal boat, then you know you’ve just hit the jackpot, right?

Now, these are some of the things you should consider when looking for the best pedal boat. Once you’ve checked all these boxes, and have made your budget considerations, then you’re ready to go and make that purchase!

Pedal Boats for Sale in Australia

Knowing the pedal boat that best fits your need is one thing, but knowing where to find them is another. It’s a good thing that Australia is filled to the brim with boating and water sports equipment stores like The Boating Emporium that make such products accessible to everyone. 

With pedal boats for sale under brands like Pelican, we make sure that we give you only the best choices. Our collection consists of pedalling that boats are made with quality materials that are sure to make you enjoy fishing and cruising with your family and friends for many years.

So, whenever you’re ready to buy a pedal boat of your own, do not hesitate to get in touch with us! You can visit our website at www.theboatingemporium.com.au, or contact us at 1300-987-441 for any inquiry.

Don’t wait any longer—let us help you make that first step to enjoying life on the water!  

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The Best Marine Power Products in Australia: Power Up Your Boat All-Year-Round

Imagine being on your boat, in the middle of the vast sea, during your most favorite time of the year. Sounds promising, doesn’t it? According to travelnation.co.uk, 90% percent of Australians live on the coast. With this kind of environment—being surrounded by the sea and rivers, residents have taken a great liking to water-related activities like boating.

Although some believe that boating season is Australia comes to a halt after Easter, there are those who still believe that boating is an all-year-round activity one can enjoy. With that in mind, it is only important to have the best marine power products that will keep your boat running in the best condition throughout the year.

No matter where you choose to sail your boat, it is essential to have quality boat power products installed to make sure that you have nothing but the best boating experience. In this article, we will show you the different types of Marine Power Products, and the best ones in Australia that will keep your boat running all year!

What are The Different Marine Power Products?

Marine power products, also called boating power accessories are essential in enjoying your time in your boat. For instance, a marine starter battery is used to start your boat’s engine. Without this, and with your boat’s power off, you wouldn’t be able to sail anywhere, would you?

Another example of the importance of a marine power product for your boat are inverters. With the use of inverters, you can use “household items” like marine ranges or freezers without your boat being hooked up to shore power, or having to go through the hassle of setting up a generator.

In this section, we will take a closer look into the different boat power accessories, and just how they will make your life in the boat easier and more enjoyable!

Deep Cycle Batteries

A deep cycle battery is designed to charge slowly for a longer period of time. It can survive several hundred charging and discharging cycles. Once a boat has started its engine, it will no longer require the same amount and surge of energy from the starting battery. It will then need a continuous and reliable power source to amp up a boat’s electric trolling motor, GPS devices, audio systems, anchor winches, and other appliances. That’s when a deep cycle battery comes in handy.

Also known as the “trolling battery”, a deep cycle battery has three types: the flooded cell, gel cell, and AMG or absorbed glass mat. A flooded cell requires monthly inspection to monitor the cells’ fluid levels, and one might need to add distilled water to maintain it. This type of deep cycle battery needs to be charged at least once a month, and should be recharged right after use.

On the other hand, gel cells and AMGs have no cell cap, and do not require monthly monitoring.  These two types of deep cycle batteries lose charge slower compared to a flooded cell, and doesn’t require immediate recharging. A setback though, gel cells and AMGs are more expensive and cannot last as long as high-grade flood cells.   

There are a few things one should consider before buying a deep cycle battery for their boats. Firstly, you must choose a battery that will fit your boat’s battery box. You should also make sure of how long you’d like to use the battery for. High-cycle batteries are relatively more expensive, but it might be would be worth it as cost per cycle goes down as battery life goes up. So, when looking for a deep cycle battery, it’s good to find a dealer that offers a good deal between price and cost cycle.

Compact Marine Inverters

A marine compact inverter is essential in your life in the boat. With the use of an inverter, (a sine wave inverter, to be more specific) you can convert direct current (DC) electricity from a battery to alternating current (AC) electricity, which is used to make appliances to run.

When you’re on the water, you would need a marine inverter to draw electricity from your deep cycle battery. Without it, you won’t have any of your essential appliances running off-shore. There are marine inverters like the Victron Phoenix Compact Inverter that are pure sine wave inverters. This means that they are perfect converters when you use appliances like refrigerators, microwaves, audio and video equipment and more. These are equipment that cannot run with direct electricity from batteries.

There are two types of marine inverters—the normal inverter and inverter charger. A normal inverter simply draws energy from the deep cycle battery and convert it into AC. This is its only function, and cannot charge any battery.

 An inverter charger, on the other hand, does what a normal inverter does, and has a built-in charger for batteries. This allows you to charge your deep cycle batteries whenever you’re on shore. Most boaters prefer this type of marine inverter as it’s more functional and automated. 

500W inverters are commonly used in boats, however, most boaters opt for inverters with higher wattage. Before purchasing a compact marine inverter, you must first make sure what kind of electronics you’re using. This is because appliances would require an additional 20% from an inverter’s wattage to run. For example, a 1000W appliance would not run on a 1000W inverter. You would need to add an allowance of 20% for it to operate, so a 1200W inverter would be the best in this case.

Marine Lithium Batteries

Lithium batteries are reliable batteries that can be made as alternative to the usual lead-acid. Boating requires a serious amount of energy, so you would need to find a power source that’s reliable and can meet your equipment’s crucial requirements.

Deep cycle batteries can also come in the form of lithium batteries. This type of battery is more lightweight, charges faster, temperature tolerant, and can last up to 10 times more than a lead-acid battery. Its charge-discharge cycle is usually between 3000 to 5000 cycles. This is far from a lead-acid battery which usually only has up to 1000 charge-discharge cycles.

Moreover, a lithium battery is almost maintenance-free. This ensures that it can give optimum results with little to no effort on maintenance at all.

Although lithium-ion batteries might be significantly more expensive than lead-acid batteries, you are sure that you are getting what you are paying for. With paying more than the usual, you get to enjoy the benefits of having a lightweight, safer, longer-lasting, and more efficient marine battery for your boat.

Battery Chargers

Although marine batteries do not require a special kind of charger, boaters must still be careful in choosing their battery charger. First of all, you must make sure that your charger matches your marine battery’s voltage and chemistry. However, there are marine battery chargers that are water resistant. This kind of charger is usually permanently mounted on the boat so you can charge your batteries at any time.

Knowing your marine battery’s voltage is essential when looking for a battery charger. Most boats would have a 12V battery, but some use 26-36V. If you want to make sure what charger is most compatible for your batteries’ voltage, you can always consult your user’s manual.

Another thing to look out for when choosing a battery charger is the battery’s chemistry. Batteries come in four types—gel, flooded, AGM, and lithium. If you use a charger that’s not compatible with your battery, this will cause damage and deplete its life cycle.

There are battery chargers in the market, like the Baintech 40A DC Battery Charger, that are compatible with all four types. There are also solar chargers like the Victron Smart Solar Charge Controller that charges your batteries by gathering energy through solar panels.

Marine Wind Chargers

Wind chargers harness wind to generate electricity and charge your marine batteries. Also known as wind turbines or wind generators, they are getting more and more popular among boaters these days. With the use of wind as power source, it means that you would rely less on shore power, and can keep your engine running and essentials charging even while sailing. These chargers require a controller/regulator to regulate the power output to the level needed.

Just like purchasing a normal battery charger, are some things a boater should consider getting their own marine wind charger. In an article by Life of Sailing, they explained a few technical terms usually encountered when using a marine charger, such as low cut-in speed, auto brake, and more. Knowing these general terms would be favorable if you want to make the most out of using your wind charger.

Another thing that you should consider would be the compatibility of your wind charger to your batteries. Having a wind charger that can charge all types of batteries can save you money in the future, even when you decide to upgrade from a simple lead-acid battery to a lithium-ion one.

One example of this wind charger is the Rutland 1200i Wind Charger. This 24V marine wind generator comes with a regulator and can start charging at lower wind speeds regulating 1.6amps in 10 knots (kts) of wind.   

Power Stations

Although they might only be as small as a microwave oven, a marine power station can provide stable power without the help of noisy, gas-powered generators. Its AC output feature also makes it more accessible and portable since you wouldn’t have to hook your appliances on inverters to make them run.

One example of this is the Ecoflow River Portable Power Station. This power station has 2 600W AC outlets, and can charge up to 10 devices simultaneously. The RIVER has pure sine wave AC outlets and can power devices with a wattage of up to 1800W when you set it on X-Boost mode. To know more about this power station, click here.

Portable power stations can be a bit more hazardous to use, so a boater must follow some safety protocols when using them on-board.  A marine power station should not be placed under a deck or in a cabin because it requires a lot of ventilation.

There are also solar power stations available in the market, like the Bluetti EB55 Power Station that comes with solar panels.

All in all, a portable power station allows you to enjoy your boating journey with less hassle, keeping it fun no matter where you sail.

These are the different kinds of marine power products that will surely keep your boat running all-year round! For the best results, you should always make sure that you know your boat’s needs, and your preferences as boater.

It’s also good to remember that marine power products may differ in prices and outputs, so finding the best distributor that can offer you good deals for your money is a must!

Buy Marine Power Products from The Boating Emporium 

Here at The Boating Emporium, we are committed to help you find the best products that will give you the best experience as you journey the water. This is why we have partnered with brands like Victron, Rutland, Baintech and more. By distributing their quality products, we make the best marine power products accessible to every Australian.

We don’t just distribute the best marine power products in the country, we also house different boating and watersports equipment for all ages. From kneeboards for kid beginners, to stand-up paddle boards for adult enthusiasts—name it, we have it!

Ready to start your journey? Contact us at 1300-987-441, or visit our website at www.theboatingemporium.com.au! Our friendly staff are ready to accommodate your questions, and help you pick out the not only the best marine power products, but anything you might need to enjoy the blue waters!

For more information, you can also visit our social media pages here: Facebook, Instagram.