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5 Man Overboard Safety Devices Tested

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We tested five MOB wearables — wireless safety devices that detect and alert when someone falls overboard — and came away with useful observations on their value.

It's well-worn advice that bad things can happen fast during a good day on the water. Should someone (pets included) fall overboard, every second counts in pulling them back on board. Wireless MOB devices deliver instant alerts while pinpointing the person in the water's location. (Photo: CrewWatcher).

U.S. Coast Guard recreational boating statistics show 274 people fell overboard in 2018 — and those are just the ones reported. Pleasure boaters, like most people in life, are prone to believe the delusion of "It won't happen to me." But it isn't very difficult — or expensive — to help ensure you or your crewmembers don't become one of those statistics.

Personal flotation devices remain the most essential tool to surviving man-overboard (MOB) or crew overboard (COB) situations. But over the past decade, wireless, wearable electronic devices that sound an alarm in MOB situations have proliferated the marine safety market. While each device is designed for the same objective (saving lives), there are differences to consider when purchasing an MOB device for your particular type of boating. For example, most don't shut off the engine, but some do. Most are smart device app-based, while one unit we tested is hard-wired to a central hub mounted on the dash.

The BoatUS Foundation recently tested five devices aboard two boats in a real-world situation to gauge their effectiveness and demonstrate the differences in their operation. Each of the units performed pretty much as advertised, so the purpose of this report is to provide first-hand observations of their similarities and differences, rather than rankings.

The test was conducted on a sunny October day out of Severna Park Yacht Basin on the Severn River, north of Annapolis, Maryland. There was no notable current running on our test ground. I joined the Foundation crew: Ted Sensenbrenner, development director (who organized the test); Jennifer Dadamo, multimedia and web project administrator (who videotaped testing with a drone and retrieved the MOB in a dinghy); and Dana Senholzi, marketing coordinator (and designated "dunkee").

The testing methodology was as real-world as we could create: Dana (in full-body wet suit and wearing a life jacket) would attach an MOB unit to her wrist or life jacket, then leap over the side of a slow-moving boat. We noted time and distance (with an open reel tape measure) before the alarm sounded, then Ted at the helm would throttle back and decipher from the phone app the most direct route to turn and retrieve Dana. The fifth unit, the one hard-wired to a central hub, is not app-based and doesn't incorporate a smart device (see Fell Marine MOB+ below).

The Sentinels

There are at least a dozen wireless MOB devices on the market, some designed more for offshore use. We settled on five reasonably priced units for inland and coastal usage, whether that's cruising, angling, or water sports. They all work similarly: a "break" in the wireless signal that links the MOB device with the receiver triggers an audio alarm that alerts the crew on board. Here's a look at the units we tested.

CrewWatcher

Fob device that manufacturer Weems & Plath claims is the only MOB device truly water-activated and responds "30 times faster than a personal AIS beacon at one-third the price."

How it works: If an activated beacon attached to the crewmember detects water or loses its signal, the app will automatically sound an alarm within 6 seconds and announce "man overboard" at maximum volume, even if the phone or tablet is in silent mode. The alarm intensifies until you tap the "start rescue" tab. In addition to the audio alarm, your phone or tablet will vibrate and flash its camera's strobe light. Using the Virtual MOB Compass, CrewWatcher visually guides you back to the "point of loss." The MOB icon moves relative to your boat's course. You just need to line up the MOB icon to your bow and keep the icon dead ahead. CrewWatcher is designed for nonmetal vessels up to 45 feet.

The Crew Watcher fob can be attached to a dog collar.

What we liked: You certainly can't ignore this warning, regardless of how loud your stereo is playing. After sounding the alarm, the app will automatically provide latitude and longitude coordinates of the MOB event, time of the event (and a counting elapsed time from the event), and will visually guide the rescuer using the virtual MOB compass. One smart device pairs with up to five beacons and can be attached to a pet collar.

General observations: We would prefer the fobs come with lanyards, but overall CrewWatcher was a top performer. $89.99 | weems-plath.com

ACR OLAS Tag

Wristband design that integrates ACR's OLAS (Overboard Location Alert System) technology that works by detecting a break in the "virtual tether" from a mobile device. Recommended for boats up to 40 feet.

How it works: When activated, an alarm will sound within 8 seconds, and the app records the latitude/longitude of the incident using the smart device's GPS. The skipper is directed to the location of the MOB event with clear virtual compass and bearing data. ACR OLAS stores all location data and time of incident required by the rescue services.

What we liked: One smart device can track up to six different tags, and each OLAS transmitter can be tracked by an unlimited number of phones/tablets. The system can function with a mix of OLAS tags and OLAS FloatOn (see below) connected on the same app. Designed to easily be attached to a pet collar.

General observations: Another of our favorites for its easy set-and-forget operation. We did not test this feature, but ACR says its Solo Mode will automatically text message (SMS) your emergency contact with your GPS coordinates in the event you get separated from your boat. An ACR device we did not test is OLAS Guardian (it wasn't available), which shuts off the engine (along with sounding an alarm) when paired with an OLAS CORE base station. $85 | acrartex.com

ACR OLAS FloatOn

Fob device with an LED flashlight and water-activated strobe.

How it works: The ACR OLAS technology detects a break in its "virtual tether" within 8 seconds. The smart device then sounds an alarm and records the latitude/longitude of the incident using the phone or tablet's GPS. A virtual compass directs the skipper to the GPS location where the MOB occurred. All location data and time of incident is recorded. Users can track up to six different OLAS Transmitters with one phone/tablet, and each individual OLAS Transmitter can be tracked by an unlimited number of phones/tablets.

What we liked: The app fired right up, quicker than others tested. In addition to the audible alarm on the mobile device, a strobe light automatically activates once the transmitter's integrated water sensors detect 6 seconds of water connection. The high-power strobe flashes once every second for up to 20 hours and is reportedly visible up to 3 nautical miles away — an important additional safety tool for low-light rescues. The fob also functions as a flashlight and can attach to a pet collar.

General observations: Suitable for offshore use. FloatOn seemed to bounce around more than the other fob devices, so it was a little awkward hanging from a life jacket. $139.95 | acrartex.com

Did You Know?

Autotether marketed the first wireless engine cutoff MOB alert system in 2007. 

Fell Marine MOB+

The only device we tested that incorporated an "xHUB" installed on or near the helm console and wired into the on board AIS and a wearable "xFOB" that can be inserted into a wristband or clipped onto a life jacket. One fob (worn by the skipper) shuts off the engine if the xFOB is submerged in 4 inches of water or is beyond range of the xHUB, while the other fob(s) sounds an alarm. Up to four xFOBs can be connected at the same time.

What we liked: With its wireless engine cutoff, it addresses the serious danger of a runaway boat. The versatility of wearing the fob on a wrist or a life jacket was useful. Although MOB+ is not app-based, and its hub doesn't display a virtual compass to guide the skipper to the MOB, the alert was instantaneous once Dana landed in the water. She was less than 40 feet away by the time we turned around.

General observations: A great device for solo skippers because the boat stops if you fall overboard. The design forces the skipper to use the device EVERY time the boat is used unless he or she overrides it every time the boat is started using the skipper's fob. The system also can be activated manually simply by pressing the fob, which could cause some accidental engine cutoffs. There's a 6-second delay before you can restart the engine. Having to wire in the system might require this to be a pro installation. $199.99 (plus installation cost) | fellmarine.com

Wristband design for use on boats up to 50 feet (due to the limitations of Bluetooth coverage to avoid false alarms caused by distance from the home port). Not for steel or carbon boats, according to the manufacturer.

All of the devices tested were easy to use and comfortable to wear.

How it works: Your smartphone signals an alarm and records the GPS position if the wristband wearer falls overboard and the signal is broken. The app also displays the MOB's position, the real-time position of the boat, and provides updates on the heading and distance to the last-known position. If necessary, you can contact emergency services directly from the app.

What we liked : This was the simplest to set up out of the box. Sea-Tags is also the only device we tested that puts an icon of the boat on a chart setting, so it was easier to understand, and you can navigate to the MOB just by the app compass display. This was the only unit tested that pairs with an "unlimited" number of Sea-Tags, and can pair with multiple smartphones.

General observations: The wristband is on the stiff side and a little trickier to put on than the other wristband models. Sea-Tags were designed in France, built in China and, with no North American retailers, must be bought directly online. $82  

Our Testing Takeaways

• Those devices with smartphone apps were easy to install, link, and arm. The app confirmed power/connection.
• We agreed we would like all of the devices to more clearly indicate when they are "on," both at the helm and in the water. The small indicator lights were tough to see in bright sunlight.
• We preferred the wristband designs to the fob models. They were more comfortable to wear, close to your body, and didn't dangle, which has the potential to get snagged. One caveat: If you want a device with a strobe, having it on a fob will help ensure it's visible if the wearer is unconscious or not able to hold his/her wrist up.
• None of the devices, except for the ACR OLAS FloatOn, made a sound on the MOB end, leaving Dana to wonder if the skipper knew she was overboard.
• Before your first use, test the range limitations before heading out to avoid false alerts. We learned a lot by running the devices through their paces.
• On our initial test, we were surprised that only one device displayed latitude/longitude coordinates, which could be confusing to many skippers. On the water, we realized it was a setting error and switched on the virtual compass. Don't make the same mistake. Read the instructions thoroughly before use.

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Rich Armstrong

Senior Editor, BoatUS Magazine

A journalist by training, BoatUS Magazine Senior Editor Rich Armstrong has worked in TV news, and at several newspapers, then spent 18 years as a top editor at other boating publications. He’s built a stellar reputation in the marine industry as one of the most thorough reporters in our business. At BoatUS Magazine, Rich handles everything from boat and product innovation and late-breaking news, to compelling feature stories, boat reviews, and features on people and places. The New Jersey shore and lakes of lower New York defined Rich's childhood. But when he bought a 21-foot Four Winns deck boat and introduced his young family to the Connecticut River, his love for the world of boats flourished from there.

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• SAVOIR FAIRE

SAVOIR FAIRE Sea change: the evolution of yacht timers

Heuer Aquastar Regate advertising, circa 1964 © TAG Heuer

At TAG Heuer, we’ve always had an intimate connection with the ocean. Our transition into nautical timing birthed some of our greatest stopwatches and timepieces ever. We’ve dug into our archives to uncover the evolution of our yacht timers. From the 1930s to present day, discover a glorious collection of pieces that have inspired both watch collectors and sailing pros.

What is a yacht timer?

To appreciate yacht timers, it’s important to understand that yacht races are defined by one critical moment. The moment when the signal boat blasts a horn and raises a flag to mark the start of the race. There is a 5-minute countdown to the start so the yachts can try to hold a strong position at the start line. This countdown to the start of a race is almost as important as the race itself. If a boat crosses the start line too soon, it is penalized. If it crosses the start line too late, it gives away an advantage to its competitors. 

Under the rules of yacht racing, flags are raised and horns are sounded 5 minutes, 4 minutes, 1 minute before the start and of course, at the start of the race. There may also be important countdowns from the 10 and 15 minute marks. Skippers must be able to control their boats as well as calculate and anticipate the time leading up to the start. By working closely with sailing experts, Heuer developed carefully thought-out yacht timers to measure pre-race intervals, tides and of course, the race.

1930s – stopwatches for yacht timing

Flick through the Heuer archives and you’ll find special stopwatches designed for yacht racing dating back all the way to the 1930s. While the numbers for minutes and seconds on a standard stopwatch count ‘up’, that is they move clockwise from 5-10-15 up to 50-55-60, the minutes and seconds on a yacht timer count ‘down’. Rather than counting up to 60 minutes, the standard yachting timer counts down exactly 5 minutes. The period for the pre-race signals in a yacht race. The numbers for seconds on Heuer’s yachting timers count ‘down’, with the numbers for seconds printed on the dial moving clockwise from 60-55-50 down to 15-10-5.  

Heuer catalogue, 1933 © TAG Heuer

Heuer catalogue, circa 1936-1938 © TAG Heuer

Heuer Solunar Advertising, circa 1940 © TAG Heuer

1949 - the rise of the Solunar

Apart from the countdown to the start of a race, yacht racers also benefit from knowing the times for high tides and low tides. In 1949, Heuer introduced the first wristwatch with a permanent tide indicator. In addition to the three standard hands to indicate the hour, minutes and seconds, the Solunar had a colorful inset disc to show the tide times. Upon arriving at a specific location, sailors, racers, or fishermen could check the local tide charts and use a pusher to set the tide disc. 

This disc then inched forward soon after midnight each day to indicate the times for the high and low tides for the following day. The Solunar laid the groundwork for the development of the Heuer chronographs of the future, which would also incorporate the tide disc.  The origin story of the Solunar is as thrilling as the timepiece itself. You can hear all about it in Season 2 of our podcast A Matter of Time .

Despite its innovative and eye-catching design, our archives suggest that Solunar wasn’t an easy sell. Here’s a quote from a piece of correspondence between Heuer and its then partner Abercrombie & Fitch: ‘This Solunar watch is a big hit, but it also has a big flaw. To sell it you need a “how to set and how to handle it” explanation. Despite a superb color leaflet, the explanation is too complicated, and the sellers in the shops prefer to sell simple watches.’

1950 to 1954 - a new wave of tide chronographs

The Solunar was a three-hand watch (hours, minutes and seconds) with a special tide dial. And it paved the way for a series of chronographs that would incorporate this same type of tide dial in a three-register chronograph, with the capacity to record up to 12 hours. The minute recorder was divided into five-minute segments, making the chronographs especially useful for yacht races. These watches were made over a period of two decades, first as the Heuer Mareograph and Abercrombie & Fitch Seafarer, with the Orvis Solunagraph joining the line-up circa 1970. Each of these chronographs sailed forth to become a collector’s item.

When these chronographs first arrived in 1950, Heuer seems to have felt the need to explain how they worked, so customers could better understand the benefits of owning a watch with a tide indicator. Here’s an advertisement for the Mareograph. It came with two separate sections that explained how you could use the timepiece for yachting as well as fishing and hunting.

1957 - the Ring-Master

While the wristwatches with tide indicators made waves, Heuer introduced an entirely new type of yacht timer in 1957: the Heuer Ring-Master. The Ring-Master stopwatch came with seven interchangeable rings, allowing the owner to quickly install different rings to time different events, like boxing, football and many other sports. Each of the rings were a different color, with different markings. The bright yellow Ring 1 was perfect for yacht racing as it was marked for a countdown of minutes and seconds.  

Heuer Solunar, circa 1950 © TAG Heuer

Heuer Seafarer, circa 1950 © TAG Heuer

Heuer Mareograph, circa 1950 © TAG Heuer

Heuer Ring-Master, circa 1957 © TAG Heuer

1959 - the Giant

Towards the end of the fifties, Heuer made revolutionary changes in its approach to yacht timers. A great example of this is a stopwatch that was listed as ‘The Giant’. First, instead of the five minutes to the start of the race being shown on a relatively small recorder occupying only a fractional area of the dial, the track marking the minutes covered almost the entire area of the dial. This track was marked for five minutes, and each of the one-minute segments was a different color. The case diameter increased from the previous standard 49mm up to 57mm, with the case also having a white enamel coating.  

1964 to 1967 - the Aquastar years

Aquastar was founded in 1962 as a subsidiary of Jean Richard, an established Swiss maker at the time. It became well-known for making watches for use in and on the water. The Regate set sail in 1964 as a watch specifically designed for timing the start of a yacht race. This model’s defining characteristics are five circular apertures across the top of the dial. Graced with a rotating disk, they give the appearance of five red balls that represent the minutes being counted down. The dial on this watch is signed ‘Aquastar’ and ‘Heuer’. Aquastar produced the watch and Heuer distributed it. By 1976 Heuer would have its own branded ‘Regatta’ countdown watches that used the same style of circular apertures. But Heuer’s examples typically timed 10-minute periods, using five red circles and five blue circles.

1964 - for every kind of skipper

Heuer was beginning to harness the potential, and versatility, of yacht timers. The watchmaker began using advertorials to persuade ‘skippers’ from different walks of life to embrace these pieces.

1966 – the Navia goes sailing

Heuer had been making dashboard clocks since the 1930s. The hallmarks of these pieces were their 8-day capacity and rugged cases and movements that could withstand racing, rallying or aviation. Named the ‘Master Time’ in 1958, by the mid-1960s Heuer had modified the dashboard clock to be useful at sea. The ‘Navia’ (referring to ‘naval’ and ‘aviation’) incorporated a waterproof case and offered superb legibility, with Heuer advertising that it was perfect for the open cockpit of a boat. 

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We arrive at the historic moment that inspired Heuer to leave a lasting mark on the sailing world: the America’s Cup in September 1967. Heuer supplied timing equipment for the legendary racing yacht Intrepid , including Heuer-Aquastar wristwatches and handheld yacht timers. Not far from the shores of Newport, Rhode Island, the Intrepid stormed to victory. To commemorate skipper Emil Mosbacher’s triumph, Heuer produced an entirely new chronograph, the iconic Reference 7754.  

The first Heuer ‘Skipper’ used a bright blue, green and orange dial. It was given a Carrera case, with the 30-minute recorder of the Carrera replaced by a 15-minute countdown recorder. This timepiece is highly coveted by vintage Heuer collectors and people with a passion for sailing. This first version would live a very short life. Only a few hundred pieces were created. And then the Skipper chronograph would move to the ‘compressor’ case of the Autavia. The name ‘Skipper’ would live on through several other versions through the 1970s and 1980s.

1968 - how to make a strong start

By crafting cutting-edge yacht timers, Heuer enabled teams to not only make a good start, but also a flying finish. Heuer was so dedicated to yacht racing enthusiasts that the brand created catalogs with tips on how to make a good start.

1970 - winning hearts

While the Skipper was making waves for chronograph enthusiasts, Heuer yacht timers continued to be marketed among Heuer’s precision instruments ‘for sports, industrial, scientific applications.’ Here’s an example of an old ad published in The Sunday Oregonian. It highlights the timer’s color-coded central five-minute register.

Heuer advertising, circa 1964 © TAG Heuer

Heuer Skipper 7754, circa 1968 © TAG Heuer

Heuer Yacht Timer advertising, circe 1970 © TAG Heuer

1972 to 1974 - the rise and rise of the Skipper

The design of the Skipper chronograph evolved over the years, as it moved from the Carrera case to a series of Autavia cases. The design of the second Skipper, circa 1970, featured a black dial, an oversized countdown recorder with red, white and blue segments, The Skipper would roll on into the 1970s in the C-shaped cases used by the Autavias, with a variety of manual and automatic configurations, but always with the emblematic 15-minute countdown recorder.

1974 - regulation approved

In 1973, Heuer introduced a new style of wrist stopwatch, called the ‘Supersport’.  The Regatta model, or Reference 775.915 from 1974, was an eye-catching piece, with a bright blue case and the red, white and blue segments on the dial corresponding to the colors used on many of Heuer’s yacht timers. This version of the Supersport was marketed as ‘a wrist speedometer built on the basis of International Yacht Racing Union regulations’. 

Heuer advertising, circa 1976 © TAG Heuer

1978 - style and substance

Crafted to be durable at sea, the Heuer yacht timer Reference 503.915 was housed inside a lightweight shockproof fiberglass case to withstand the elements (and look good doing it). Heuer called this its ‘Fibershell’ case.  At 62mm across the case, this yacht timer was easy to grip (being larger than even The Giant, from 1959), while the unique shape of the case ensured that the sailor would have a ‘safe, sure grip’ under any conditions. 

1983 - regatta royalty

Heuer had offered ‘Regatta’ wristwatches in the 1960s and 1970s, but in 1983 the Regatta moved to a dramatic new series of cases, borrowed from the Autavia. At over 42mm across the dial, the cases were coated in either black, olive or pewter. Each Regatta was graced with colored discs (red and blue) to countdown two 5-minute sequences. The other, even more colorful, wrist yacht timers gaining in popularity were the Reference 503.512 and the Heuer Surfer.

1983 to 1986 - time for action

‘Time for action’ was TAG Heuer’s call to action in the 1980s. The tagline was stamped across several catalogs at the time, showcasing the brand’s wide range of versatile timing equipment that attracted sporting professionals and enthusiasts from across the world. From motor racing to athletics to, of course, sailing. The 1983 catalog featured the final version of the Skipper as we knew it then, housed in a large version of the Autavia case.

TAG Heuer "Time for action" advertising, circa 1986 © TAG Heuer

Heuer Yacht Timer, circa 1978 © TAG Heuer

Heuer Yacht Timer, circa 1982 © TAG Heuer

Heuer Yacht Timer, circa 1983 © TAG Heuer

Heuer Yacht Timer, circa 1984 © TAG Heuer

Heuer Surfer, circa 1984 © TAG Heuer

1990 to 2014

By releasing yacht timers like the TAG Heuer Searacer (in the late 1990s), the Aquaracer Calibre S Regatta (circa 2005) and the limited edition TAG Heuer Aquaracer 500 Meter Countdown Chronograph for Team Oracle USA at the 2013 America’s Cup, the brand continued its steady relationship with sailing.

2023 - a return to the high seas

Today TAG Heuer is once again expanding its horizons and reconnecting with its sailing DNA. Through its new partnership with Flying Nikka – a racing yacht at the leading edge of high-performance sailing technology – the brand is back sailing the high seas at the highest level.

2023 - the comeback king

This year also marks the return of the legendary Skipper . Reminiscent of the unforgettable 1968 Heuer Skipper, this new iteration is yet another exhilarating landmark, further strengthening TAG Heuer’s bond with the ocean. A relationship that began almost 100 years ago, in the 1930s, but will undoubtedly last forever.

CBS2213.FN6002 TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph Skipper

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• Yacht Timer

11/02/2021 A Wristed Development: What stopped the pocket watch?

A look back at the fascinating moment (alright, it took a few years...) when the world made the shift from the stopwatch to the wrist-watch. From the hotly-debated ‘first’ wrist-mounted timepiece, all the way to the first Heuer watch – join us for a rambling review of time-keeping through time.

08/19/2021 In it for the Long Haul

We hit the pits with the Porsche Motorsport GT Team and WEC crews for a behind-the-scenes look at long-distance competition. At the end of the day (literally), it’s a true team effort.

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Sea Ray Yachts: The Complete Guide to Sea Ray Yachts

Table of Contents

An all-American titan in the boating world, Sea Ray Yachts is the world’s largest and arguably best manufacturer of superior quality yachts. Here’s what the critics have to say about these yachts  what the critics say .

The History of Sea Ray Yachts

Founded in Detroit, Michigan by the young C. N. Connie, Sea Ray has stood as a beacon of innovation and progress, one that would eventually redefine the face of yachting since 1959. It was the first boat manufacturer in the world to use fiberglass in pleasure boat construction.

In 1972, it opened a state-of-the-art facility at Merit Island, Florida. Over time, this grew into three individual plants at that location, employing more than a thousand workers at its peak. Indeed, this enterprise was so renowned for their quality that they could build over a dozen high-end yachts each week, each retailing from $200,000 to $500,000.

However, while its designers were hard at work, Connie Ray’s had the canniest insight that the key to a boat’s success was charismatic dealers. He built a strong network of dependable dealers that were respected across the US. Sea Ray’s first big break came in 1975 with the Sundancer line , which earned the company a place in yachting history. Its seductive lines and spacious cabin space tempted boaters away from traditional, not to mention stuffy, boxy cabin cruisers that dominated the market at the time.

In 1986, Sea Ray was purchased by the Brunswick Corporation for $350 million. Meanwhile, Brunswick purchased the Bayliner brand, making it the largest pleasure boat producer in the world. The rest, they may say, is history.

Features of a Sea Ray Yacht

Everything Sea Ray does is designed not only to be exceptional but create the exceptional. Indeed, Sea Ray is more than a boat; it is a way of life. There is a reason that Sea Ray has one of the largest networks of boat owners the world over. Get involved. Be a part of it.

Brilliant boats are only possible because of their brilliant design. Fortunately, the naval architects at Sea Ray are some of the best. They strive to make every detail of a Sea Ray distinctive, bold, timeless. When your eyes first gaze upon a Sea Ray, it will be love at first sight. This is because each model is designed with the owner at heart. They will cater to every need or desire.

Nimble. Sporty. Fast. High-octane. Sea Ray Yachts always perform. But this power is at no cost to comfort and security. Sea Ray Yachts are smooth, quiet, and easy to handle. They will not let you down – whatever the weather.

More than most other boatbuilders in the market, Sea Ray cares for their customers. They have an unrivaled reputation for support and commitment that is unmatched by any other manufacturer out there. Such is reflected in the fact that each vessel comes with a 3 – 5 year warranty.

No wonder Sea Ray has won an enviable amount of  awards  for quality, customer satisfaction, and dealer performance. Connie Ray would be proud.

The Sea Ray Range

We are fortunate enough to present a rich array of Sea Rays for rental. In fact, thanks to our  peer-to-peer  boat rental network, testing out a Sea Ray yacht is easier than ever before.

Boatsetter rentals typically come with a knowledgeable captain and crew to guide you on an exciting yacht charter adventure. We offer boats to rent from multiple locations across the United States, Europe, and beyond. Many of our rentals can be enhanced with jet skis, electronic surfboards, and sea bobs.

Want to know where to begin? Click  here .

The Sundancer Series

For that long weekend, you have been dreaming of

Need a break? Well, the Sundancer Series will allow you to enjoy a much-needed long weekend in sheer comfort and style. Experienced craftsmanship and cutting-edge technology, the Sundancer Series provides an idyllic boating experience. Treat your partner, surprise your lover, or take the fishing rods and go it alone. Go on. Do it.

Sundancer 320

The Sundancer 320 is as plentiful as it is functional. It has a spacious bow lounging area and seating area on the deck , complete with wet bar, refrigerator and grill, and comfortable cabin. In short, a space for endless entertaining and reclining in style. And when the sun dips low in the sky, the Sundancers V- berth seating around a solid wood table converts into a sleeping area fit for a king. Four kings, to be precise!

This boat packs a punch on the waves powered by Twin MerCruiser 6.2 L MPI ECT Bravo III engines. Its cutting-edge VesselView Mobile technology allows you to connect your iPhone or Android to the yacht’s onboard management system, where it will monitor all the engines and customize data points. If something isn’t right, it will send you alerts to assist in troubleshooting and keep you and your family safe on the water.

Sundancer 370 Outboard

Measuring in at 39′ 9″, the Sundancer 370 Outboard is an engineering feat. Below deck, it offers sheer relaxation, so much so you won’t want to get off at the port . Sleeping four, there is plenty of room for maneuvering in the cabin. Across the interior, there is a chic yet homely design that emphasizes spaciousness. The galley includes a microwave, refrigerator, and forward V-berth lounge.

Fantastic for the kids, there is a shower, optional smart TV for playing video games, and a u-shaped sofa that converts into a sleeper for two. Don’t worry about the babysitter.

With joystick piloting and an optional dynamic running surface, the Sundancer performs without par. It is propelled by standard triple Mercury 300 Verado outboard engines. These can be commanded intelligently as the helm is equipped with a Digital Dash feature and standard dual 122 Simrad touch screen displays.

The SLX Series

Unleash your inner athlete  

A ground-breaking in every sense. The SLX Series combines high performance with innovative technology. They are perfect for the sports enthusiast out there – or one in the making. All the towers and hardtops in the series include new forward-facing and folding styles. Many towers fold electronically, whereas standard and optional components include:

• Swivel wakeboard racks.
• Integrated bimini tops and lights.
• Rotating nylon ski tows for reduced rope wear.

The SLX 280 is a dream. There is a level of excellence in its design that you will see and feel. You can dazzle your passengers at night by lighting up the ocean with blue underwater LED lights, which help set the mood of spending time with loved ones or friends. Add in soft ambient music or something a bit more high tempo, and you have yourself a party.

When you wish to tear off to a new destination in the morning, the SLX 280 can perform without compromises. Smooth and responsive controls allow you to master its power and agility, while its Mercury SmartCraft Digital Throttle and Shift (DTS) system deliver effortless command. Aggression. Power. Performance. Can you tame this beast?

The SDX Series

Raise a glass to the sunshine.

Summers go past in the blink of an eye. This is why it is important to choose carefully who we spend our free time with and how we spend it. Every SDX model is designed to bring you the best moments, be it with family, friends, or business colleagues – they cater to groups of many sizes and needs. An SDX is a tribute to summer.

Do you love water sports? And do you like spending time with your friends? This is where the SDX 290 shines. One of the best in its class, this luxury deck boat has a deep V hull and wide carried forward beam , measuring in 9′ (3m). This handy feature allows you to seat more friends and customize the layout to your group’s individual needs with the convertible portside and helm seats. Sailing or at anchor, the SDX 290 is malleable to your needs.

The SPX Series

Non-stop thrills

This series is built for days to remember. Each sport boat is built to excite and entertain. The heady cocktail of style, performance, and fun. What’s not to love?

Sporty and affordable, the SPX 190 Outboard is an athlete on the water. It glides across the water effortlessly with its comfortable handling, while the stylish design delivers a premium boating experience without an eye-watering price tag . The SPX comes as standard with 2 x Mercury 115 Pro XS outboard engines with power options up to 150 HP.

And for when you feel like taking a break from the thrills, the deck has a spacious sun pad and easy water access from the swim platform. The interior will provide the kind of comfort and performance your family needs and deserves.  Take a look for yourself  with this walkthrough.

Don’t miss the call of the water. Can you hear it? 

Boatsetter empowers people to explore with confidence by showing them a world of possibility on the water. Rent  a boat,  list  your boat, or become a  Boatsetter captain  today.

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The superyacht world is speculating that Mark Zuckerberg just bought this 118-meter boat

• The 118-meter superyacht Launchpad made her maiden voyage last week.
• The yacht world is speculating that her owner is Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg.
• Here's what we know about the luxury vessel.

In the world of superyachts , privacy is the most valuable asset. It can be next to impossible to discern the details of a superyacht transaction — and that's particularly true if the vessel in question is worth nine figures.

Yet some in the boat blogging world are speculating that Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg is the new owner of Launchpad, a megayacht currently moored in Fort Lauderdale, Florida after she made her maiden voyage from Gibraltar to St Maarten last week. Launchpad clocks in at 118 meters long, about nine meters shorter than Jeff Bezos' superyacht Koru .

The transaction could not be confirmed, with yacht world insiders declining to share what they know and representatives for Zuckerberg not responding to a request for comment from Business Insider. In the past, reports about Zuckerberg owning superyacht Ulysses have proven false.

Related stories

"It is Feadship's standard policy to never divulge any information about our yachts with reference to ownership, costs, or delivery, etc," Feadship, the ship's builder, wrote to BI. "Whether it is an 18-meter Feadship from the 1960s or a 118-meter Feadship from the 21st century, we do not share private information."

But Zuckerberg's name has been connected to Launchpad for a few months now, beginning in December when reports swirled that he visited Feadship's shipyard in the Netherlands.

Then, earlier in March, yachting bloggers like eSysman SuperYachts and Autoevolution started speculating that he officially snagged the boat, originally built for a sanctioned Russian businessman, at a $300 million price tag. (While that's a seemingly huge amount, it's still less than 0.2% of Zuckerberg's $177 billion net worth.)

Another clue that might point to US ownership is that the yacht bears the flag of the Marshall Islands, a US territory and commonplace for American buyers to register their ships, according to public marine tracking.

If Zuckerberg were to have bought Launchpad, he would join a cohort of superyacht-owning tech billionaires . Along with Bezos, the likes of Oracle cofounder Larry Ellison and Google cofounders Sergey Brin and Larry Page have purchased impressive boats with even more impressive amenities.

SuperYacht Times , an industry publication and intelligence platform, has some of the best images of the yacht. Photos show a swimming pool on her main deck and a large helipad.

While less is known of the interior, a vessel of her size can likely sleep dozens of guests and crew and may have amenities like an expansive gym where Zuckerberg could practice his jiu-jitsu or a spa with a massage area. We suspect there's also space for plenty of toys — which could include his viral hydrofoil foil .

Do you have any details about Launchpad or any other superyachts? Email reporter Madeline Berg at [email protected].

Watch: Walmart heiress' superyacht vandalized by activists in Ibiza

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Setag Yachts Ltd, trading as SETAG, is registered in England. Reg no 13096558.

Registered address: Units 5 & 9, Atlantic Building, Queen Anne’s Battery, Plymouth, Devon, PL4 0LP, England.

UK VAT number 378 4305 73.

Kiev Municipal Cruising Yacht Club

Similar experiences.

Kiev Municipal Cruising Yacht Club (Kyiv, Ukraine): Address - Tripadvisor

• Minimum booking is two (2) hours - 3.500 uah
• Three (3) hours - 4.800 uah
• Four (4) hours - 6.000 uah
• Five (5) hours - 7.200 uah
• For each additional person + 200 uah (max. 15 persons)
• From 10:00 till 20:00 - 8.800 uah
• Minimum booking is two (2) hours - 4.000 uah
• Three (3) hours - 5.400 uah
• Four (4) hours - 6.700 uah
• Five (5) hours - 7.800 uah
• From 10:00 till 20:00 - 9 .800 uah
• next to the River Mall
• entrance opposite to gas station Socar, small descent down between "Riviera" yacht-club and "River Mall"
• nearest metro station Osokorki
• no guarded parking
• parking possibility in the River Mall 100m
• yacht club charges 200 uah for boarding
• Shoes with soft, non-marking non-slip soles (crocs, moccasins, sneakers, slippers, flip flops) or be barefoot
• Clothes without abrasive accessories
• Windbreaker
• Sun glasses
• Bathing suit
• Spacious cabin with a large table (200x80) and upholstered sofas for up to 10 people
• Two bow cabins both with three berths
• Interior finishing - mahogany and oak
• Captain's stern cabin for the crew
• Head (toilet) - electric
• Deck furniture - four benches for 12+ people, tables
• Stern seating with a table, protected by an awning from the sun for up to eight people
• Windbreakers, jackets, blankets
• Radio/CD/MP3/DVD/USB - music in the cabin
• Power supply - 12W
• Lifebuoys and vests
• First aid kit
• Two refrigerators, 45 liters each
• All necessary kitchen utensils
• Serving dishes and bowls
• Limited number of glassware, plates and cutlery
• Furniture - two tables, four benches, stools
• Accessories - awning (5x4m.), parasols, blankets
• Two barbecue grills, barbecue grids, skewers, ax
• Cauldrons of seven and 15 liters, wok 10 liters, tripod, smoker
• Sports accessories: volleyball, football, badminton, petanque, frisbee, cricket, fishing rods, etc.
• Inflatable boat
• Tent for four persons
• Project/Builder - Biryukovich Konstantin Lvovich
• Hull – Ferro-cement, concrete
• Displacement - 22 t
• Ballast in keel - 8 t
• Length overall - 16 m. (52,5 ft.)
• Beam - 3,7 m. (~12 ft.)
• Draft (distance from waterline to keel) - 2,0 m. (6,5 ft.)
• Engine – Vetus Mitsubishi, turbo diesel, 52 hp.
• Mast height from the waterline - 16 m (52,5 ft.)
• Bermuda sloop and rig
• Sail area - ~100 m² (~1.076 ft²)
• Mainsail 35 m², staysail/genoa ~65 m²
• Nationality: Finn
• Profession: Captain of the yacht, chef, restaurateur
• Sailing in Kyiv since 1992
• Captain of the yacht NORD since 2000
• Languages: Finnish, English, Russian

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A Dutch museum has sent Crimean treasures to Kyiv after a legal tug-of-war between Russia, Ukraine

FILE - A spiraling torque from the second century A.D., is displayed as part of the exhibit called The Crimea - Gold and Secrets of the Black Sea, at Allard Pierson historical museum in Amsterdam, on April 4, 2014. A valuable collection of historical treasures from Crimea that were stored for years at an Amsterdam museum amid an ownership dispute sparked by Russia’s annexation of the peninsula has been safely transported to war-torn Ukraine, the museum announced Monday, Nov. 27, 2023. (AP Photo/Peter Dejong, File)

FILE - A Chinese lacquer box from the first century A.D. is displayed as part of the exhibit called The Crimea - Gold and Secrets of the Black Sea, at Allard Pierson historical museum in Amsterdam, on April 4, 2014. A valuable collection of historical treasures from Crimea that were stored for years at an Amsterdam museum amid an ownership dispute sparked by Russia’s annexation of the peninsula has been safely transported to war-torn Ukraine, the museum announced Monday, Nov. 27, 2023. (AP Photo/Peter Dejong, File)

FILE - A Scythian gold helmet from the fourth century B.C. is displayed as part of the exhibit called The Crimea - Gold and Secrets of the Black Sea, at Allard Pierson historical museum in Amsterdam on April 4, 2014. A valuable collection of historical treasures from Crimea that were stored for years at an Amsterdam museum amid an ownership dispute sparked by Russia’s annexation of the peninsula has been safely transported to war-torn Ukraine, the museum announced Monday, Nov. 27, 2023. (AP Photo/Peter Dejong, File)

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THE HAGUE, Netherlands (AP) — Historical treasures that were stored for years at an Amsterdam museum during an ownership dispute sparked by Russia’s annexation of Crimea have been safely transported to Ukraine, the museum announced Monday.

Their transport ends a nearly decade-long legal tug-of-war over the artifacts including a solid gold Scythian helmet from the 4th century B.C. and a golden neck ornament from the second century A.D. that weighs more than a kilogram (two pounds).

“This was a special case, in which cultural heritage became a victim of geopolitical developments,” Els van der Plas, director of the Allard Pierson historical museum, said in a statement.

The museum displayed the 300 artifacts from four museums in Crimea in an exhibition that opened a month before the Russian annexation in 2014.

Both the Ukrainian government in Kyiv and the four Crimean museums that had loaned bronze swords, golden helmets, precious gems and other artifacts to the Allard Pierson demanded the objects back.

After a series of lower court decisions, the Dutch Supreme Court ruled in June that the museum must return the treasures to Ukraine and not to the four museums from which they originally came for an exhibition titled “Crimea — Gold and Secrets of the Black Sea.”

Judges cited the lack of national recognition for the Russia-annexed Autonomous Republic of Crimea.

“Although the museum pieces originate from Crimea and can therefore also be regarded as Crimean heritage, they are part of the cultural heritage of Ukraine,” the Supreme Court ruled.

“We are pleased that clarity has emerged and that they have now been returned,” Van der Plas said.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov reaffirmed Russia’s view that the trove should be returned to Crimea.

“It belongs to Crimea and it should be there,” Peskov told reporters.

Follow AP’s coverage of the war in Ukraine: https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine