KEY POINTS:
Captain Teach Press, the publishing imprint of Boat Books, has released what it describes as a new concept in boating logbooks, designed especially for small power boats.
The Boat Log is actually a two-book log set, encased in a two-part clear plastic pouch and designed to fit in a dashboard locker.
The idea behind the pack is that one part, the Trip Log, can travel with the owner if they change boats, while the other part, the Equipment and Service Log, stays with the boat as an ongoing record.
The Trip Log in particular has also been designed to encourage children and less active participants to become involved with this key part of boating.
It has a trip-by-trip checklist for the boat's equipment and for recording tide and weather information, plus a narrative trip record.
The Equipment and Service Log is designed to record ownership, mechanical and safety equipment and service history. It includes a full list of all VHF marine radio stations operated by New Zealand Coastguard, Maritime New Zealand and private operators.
It also contains recommendations on essential equipment, as approved by Maritime New Zealand and the Coastguard.
Boat Log author Rodney Leech is a Coastguard cutter skipper and tutor. He is also a seasoned boatie, having owned or operated everything from small power boats to launches and yachts. The Boat Log has been prepared in consultation with Coastguard Northern Region, Maritime New Zealand and other regional maritime organisations.
The Boat Log is available throughout New Zealand at a recommended retail price of $35. The two log books are also available separately, at RRP $17 for the Equipment and Service Log and RRP $25 for the Trip Log.
