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Originally Posted by Acres per Second
1) Boater-Ed is trying to blend the Older Boater in at present: some won't be bothered, and will just play golf or game electronically. (Not to mention that their test taking skills are less well-honed than younger boaters and the requirements have just become an impediment this year over the much-friendlier on-line requirements!)
2) Gas has increased in cost, but it's been incremental; all the while, boats are incrementally larger—creating new demand for fuel—thereby raising the cost of fuel!
3) Larger boats contribute to the lake's "agitation-cycle" that conflicts with other former activities, such as waterskiing, sightseeing, cruising, picnicking at anchor, and learning to waterski.
Tubing thrives on the "agitation-cycle", and ever-larger boats are taking up the activity!
4) Ocean-racers pride themselves on their money-spending and have little to fear financially from enforcement activities: there's that intimidation factor from their speeds and wakes—particularly in congested bays and harbors.
5) Some begin their boating experience with a large-ish boat for Lake Winnipesaukee, and have little appreciation for the effect of their wakes on other boaters and swimmers in shallow waters. (Where wakes really increase in force).
There. I think I'm done!  |
I would think that you of all people would be happier with the more stringent requirements and testing program for boaters education this year, yet your post makes it sound like it is an added nuisance impeding older boaters from enjoying the lake???
The rest of your post is a lot of opinions only, based on your feelings on speed and large boats. Let's look at the real facts that can be substantiated:
1. This spring has not been overly warm. Many people go out on boats to enjoy nice weather and swimming in 60-70 degree water is no fun when the air temp is only in the lower seventies. We have had many windy weekends as well which only makes it less enjoyable unless you are a sailboater.
2. Gas prices are up, as well as labor costs to fix boats, prices to buy boats, and insurance is to protect them.
3. It is still early in the season. Many families with school age children just finished up their school obligations within the last few weeks and will most likely start to frequent the lakes region more.
We noticed many sailboats out this week and a lot of small runabouts, under 25 feet. Not much so to speak for the "ocean-racers" as you deem them. Just a lot of smaller boats that don't know the rules of the road.