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On a Boat by tinyfrogletA day out on the water can be relaxing or thrilling, depending on the activity of choice. From a smooth boat ride to the excitement of jumping waves on a jet ski, spending time on the water can be a great way to spend your down time. If visions of ‘A Perfect Storm’ have you shying away from the sea, download one or more of these top five boating inspired apps so you’ll know what the day will hold.

1. WunderMap

This free application will be your go to source for the latest weather data when you’re out on the water. Use the animated Doppler to see if squalls are heading towards you or away and present moment weather alerts will give you enough warning to head for shore should nasty weather start your way.

2. Marine Weatherfax Viewer HD

For $4.99, this app will show you the weather facts info from five separate locations. The application may be a bit advanced for the average person but once you learn how to read the wind wave and surface charts you’ll find it indispensable. It should be noted that the application only works in range of an AT&T tower so you may want to check on the provider’s coverage before shelling out any money.

3. AyeTides

Check the times of high and low tides as well as the sun and moon’s setting and rising times. Scrolling sideways will allow you to see the same information for previous or future days. The app can automatically check your current location and give you a number of tide stations to choose from. Toggle between the standard table and the tide graph to see a quick report of the current tide level. With a sort of ‘you are here’ circle, you can easily see where you are in relation to the current tide.

4. PocketNav

At $16.99, this application is a bit expensive but well worth it if you are a serious boater. PocketNav allows you to sync with your computer which makes it handy for planning and reviewing your trip before you head out. Once on the water, monitor your speed and heading as well as distance covered, position and course.

5. Weatherbug

Cell Phone by lululemon athletica

No list of weather or boating apps would be complete with the tried and true Weatherbug application. The app isn’t incredibly in-depth but provides users with quick access to current weather data and detailed week-long forecasts. The app is also available for download on your computer or tablet.

Aside from these applications, be sure that you have secured a personal watercraft insurance policy. Even with the best weather applications, the unexpected can happen and you want to be sure your boat and your passengers are covered. With common sense and one or more of these great apps, you can help ensure that you won’t be caught in a ‘perfect storm’ when out on the sea.

Photo credits: On a Boat by tinyfroglet/flickr; Cell Phone by lululemon athletica/flickr

Timothy Petersen is an avid water sports enthusiast and content contributor for SkiSafe.com, a Boat Insurance provider specializing in PWC insurance for jetskiis, yachts, fishing boats, and more.

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