New to Thread as Relatively New 44DA Owner
All--
Bought a '08 44DA last year and I'm new to this forum/thread. Have enjoyed the 44 this past year, to include an 8-day trip of the Chesapeake where the boat worked flawlessly. This is my first Diesel boat and I had a 340DA previously...
I agree with Warren. We have the factory-installed platform and it works great! We do the same thing regarding the fiberglass beach--we lower the platform into the water, put our chairs on the platform with water up to our knees, and sometimes add an umbrella. Best option on the boat!
I agree with Emory Shover...did my survey on new 44DA...VERY thorough...spent almost entire day conducting survey between on-the-water (sea trial), on-the-hard, in-the-water...has the right equipment (e.g., Protimeter Aquant Plus2 for touch hull moisture check) to ensure job done right...he also...
As Michele highlighted in the PWYC LifeLine, unfortunately Sea Ray won't be providing free t-shirts for this year's event at Tim 2--can buy there. Should be a GREAT time, but weather always seems to play havoc at the bend of the river.
See you all there.
I have the IPAD 2 with WIFI and 3G (with built-in GPS), and would agree with others to spend the money getting a new IPAD with built-in GPS rather than an add-on capability. I've used my IPAD now for almost 3 years/boating seasons and it has never failed and is "spot on". In fact, the GPS on...
I'd echo what others have said. I've used my Sea Sucker for the IPAD for 3+ years and have always used it on a smooth surface. I've tried to use it on textured surfaces and it doesn't adhere as well or as long. One time I had the suction break loose on plane after hitting a wave while mounted...
I agree--I've found my smartcraft to be very accurate on my last two different boats (340 DA and 44 DA). Once set-up (e.g., gallons per tank, etc), smartcraft gives accurate burn rate, etc. I tested my 340 DA fuel consumption for several years between smartcraft and actual fuel use/burn and it...
Randy--
This is GREAT; thanks much for posting! Hopefully, I'll get the opportunity to go over to the Bahamas one of these days by boat as it is on my bucket list. Thanks again for sharing.
Bob--
Another individual at our marina had the same problem. He reverted to the age-old solution of disconnecting power to the unit/chart plotter and turning it back on again, which worked. Not sure this will work for you, but it might be worth a shot. Another option would be to hit the...
Zorba--
Yes, it is basically a local Wi-Fi. Good for music and associated airplay between boats if they also have same system. Not 100% sure on streaming video--likely need AppleTV, AirPlay, and 4G/3G IPAD together for this to work.
FYI, I have used IPAD connected straight via USB to TV...
Another option is to go "Wi Fi". This gives you ability to control your music via Wi Fi, with added advantages of having Wi Fi connection and then "sharing/linking" your music between boats. An inexpensive Wi Fi set-up would be the Apple Airport Express...URL: http://www.apple.com/wifi/. All...
Agree with all. In addition, try using WoodyWax in cockpit non-skid as that helps as well. Combined, this will likely give you another 1-2 years on carpet. BTW, the new carpet backing (ribbed) is much better and longer lasting.
Rob--
Another potential option is Queensboro...I've had virtually everything imaginable made with boat name/design on it from them (e.g., hats, shirts, golf windbreakers, etc)...below is their URL: http://www.queensboro.com/. Nice thing is that they have free first-time design set-up.
FYI...
Dave--
Your experience "in conditions" will dictate whether you take your 280 out into the Chesapeake or not. You can certainly run the 280 in 5-6 ft waves, but it won't be much fun. I've found that the boat can take more than the boaters.
From a personal perspective, I found it not worth...
Went with the Insignia 26" HD Flatscreen in my old 340DA...mounted on standard Sea Ray stainless U-bracket on port side above sink...loved it as it was large enough to sit on dock behind boat and still view games, etc...one key factor during my research is brightness; need to buy a TV with...
Agree with all...Cruiseair says 40-45 to not put undue strain on unit...our SR mechanic recommends same...my unit will still generate heat and run below 40, especially if already working...I personally wait until ~45 to be on safe side.
Ryan--
Will do...hope to make several trips to the Georgetown Wall and Three Sisters this year...we usually have a German Shephard on the boat--if you see a 44 DA with "Schatzi" on board, stop and say Hi...
Ryan--
Thanks much! We're certainly looking forward to the upcoming boating season. I love the sound of diesels in the morning--it sounds like victory (in convincing the wife to buy a bigger boat)!
:smt038
Yes, we had our chain marked at every 10' when we bought the new boat (part of the contract/agreement)...I personally painted chain/rope in my 340 at same interval...gives you a visual reference on how much rode scope is played out...my thoughts...