When it comes to storing your boat, whether outdoors or out of season, it's important to think carefully about safety. In particular, you should be aware of your boat's marine electronics, which are often targeted by criminals.

Why Criminals Target Marine Electronics

Boat owners are part of a larger community. There is a mutual sense of trust and respect that goes far beyond sailing. So when you lock your boat in the marina, you naturally have a certain level of confidence that your boat will be safe from harm.

Unfortunately, this is not always true. The culprits, some members of the boating community and some outsiders, often hit the ships due to their weakness. And when a boat is stolen, the marine electronics are often the first thing taken.

Marine electronics are preferred due to their value and ease of access. With simple tools like bolt cutters and screwdrivers, navigation systems, sound devices, sonar devices, and other electronic devices can be quickly removed and easily hidden. And if you don't have a plan to protect your electronics from theft, your boat could be the next target.

How to protect your marine electronics.

 And your boat needs to be visible, which makes it harder to steal.”

Marine electronics theft is not an epidemic in the boating community, but it is not an isolated problem. As a boat owner, here are some simple steps you can take to avoid becoming a victim.

1. Store items properly.

The first step is to store your electronic devices properly so they cannot be easily picked up from your boat.

For electronic devices that can be removed without much effort, it is always best to take them with you when the boat is not in use. While this is a bit tricky, it is well worth the extra time and effort.

For electronic devices that cannot be easily removed, make sure you have stored them properly. Having proper locks, screws, and security measures will make it more difficult for criminals to access your electronic devices. (Thieves prefer to get in and out. They usually don't have the patience or skill to steal things that are well protected.)

2. Invest in an alarm system.

They are becoming more and more popular. As technology has improved in recent years, adoption rates are skyrocketing. If you are thinking of installing an alarm system on your boat, here are some things to consider:

  • The alarm system must be simple and intuitive; otherwise you won't take the time to use it.
  • What kind of security features are you looking for? Do you want an alarm that sounds as soon as you get on the boat, or would you prefer one that goes off when the deck, hatches or door move?
  • Do you want alarms with professional monitoring services? Or do you just want someone to make a loud noise and draw attention to the boat (like a car alarm)?

There are many solutions available and you want to find one that meets your needs.

3. Avoid aiming at your ship.

Criminals are looking for quick, low-risk jobs. If your ship looks like a challenge, you won't be the target. Here are some things you can do to prevent theft:

  • Never leave open objects (electronic or otherwise).
  • When not in use for days or weeks, it not only adds a physical layer of defense, but also makes you less likely to steal your boat. (Criminals don't know what's inside and usually don't waste time on search missions.)
  • Avoid glare. The more attention you pay to your ship, the more likely someone is to think you have valuables on board.

4. Choose the right marina.

Be careful where you place your ship. An affordable starter sheet may be easy on your wallet, but does it provide enough security? You generally pay for what you get. Choose a marina with surveillance services, security cameras and attentive staff.

smart boot

You don't need the best boat or the latest technology to enjoy rowing. What you really need is a smart approach. From the type of boat you buy and how you use it to the ways you prevent premature loss and theft, every little detail matters. Take the time to complete your vision so you can