Well it's that time of year again and it's time to do a little maintenance on the ol' jet ski so she's ready to hit the water in tip top shape next year and it's time to start riding again.

Follow a few simple steps in winterizing your jet ski and you will be able to hit the water faster while your friends are flailing around for parts, oil & gas you can spray them and laugh. Sounds like fun to me. So here are a few tips to protect your jet ski, get started faster when the time comes and possible save a little cash in the process. There are a few ways to do these steps just make sure you do them don't get caught up in the order too much just make sure you read your owners manual before you start.

Step 1.
Drain the engine of excess water
If you're like most place you may get a bit of an indian summer and get to go for a few more rides before the winter sets in. Just make sure you start preparing for the off-season when you are sure you're not going to be riding anymore. You will want to get a jump on getting ready to store your personal watercraft for the off-season as soon as you can, by that I mean right out of the water for the last ride of the season — drain the water from the engine right there on the loading dock no need to delay.

Start the engine a few times letting it run for no more than 30 seconds to prevent the engine from overheating. While the engine is running, turn the handle back and forth. This drains any excess water out of the engine.

Step 2.
Clean That Bad Boy Up Already
You do want the jet ski to look great the first time you take it out for a spin don't you? Take extra care to thoroughly clean you jet ski before putting it away for the season.

Wash down the exterior of the craft. You can just use the same soap you would use to wash your car. Make sure and get all the build-up from the season off, waiting would just make it that much harder. This should go without saying … make sure it's completely dry. Get ready to do a karate kid impression cause it's time to put on a coat of wax. No need to go overboard or anything just a light coat will do. When you're done waxing on and off grab some multi-purpose lube and coat any metal surfaces.

Step 3
Go Ahead and Gas Her Up
I know this sounds a bit backward but get you're credit card out and top the tank off. This will prevent an condensation from building up during the storing period. Make sure to add some gas stabilizer to prevent the gas from thickening. This is an important step so don't forget to add your stabilizer.

Start up the engine for a few short burst so the stabilizer can get through the carburetors and drain any excess water you missed at the dock. Now don't be stupid an store a full gas tank next to your grill or anything. Remember flame+gas=bad news.

Step 4
Oil Her Down
Okay so maybe it's not as sexy as it sounds. Spray some fogging oil through the carburetors and spark plug cylinders. Take off the air cleaning and spray the oil right into the carburetor, it's easy and only takes a second.

Now start the engine and spray the oil into the the carburetor while it's running and replace the air cleaners some some nice fresh ones please.

Take out the spark plugs and spray some oil down into the holes. Clean any oil the you've been sloppy with and replace the spark plugs.

Step 5
Remove The Battery Silly
Remove the battery by first disconnecting the negative terminal followed by the positive terminal. Store you battery in a shed or your garage, just make sure you keep it away from where you live since they can be quite toxic at times. If the battery is old you may think about recycling it and just getting a new one next season.

Attach the battery to a trickle charger and remember to check the battery water level every month throughout the storage period.

Step 6
Store The Old Girl 
This sounds like putting your in-laws in the quest house I know but trust me this is the best part because your almost done! Remember what I said earlier, flame+gas=bad news, so just think about where you are going to store the jet ski. Make sure it's in a level spot and off the ground. If you are storing your personal watercraft on the trailer take the tires off the prevent flats and corrosion. Use the cinder blocks out by the shed that your wife thought you would never use. 

Once the old girl is in place, unlatch the seat of the jet ski to allow air to circulate through and prevent any moisture from being trapped underneath. Go the kitchen grab a piece of steel wool or a rag and put it inside the exhaust to prevent any animals or bugs from nesting there.

Almost done, just do one more thing, place your cover over your jet ski to keep it clean and protected while it's being stored. Now if you followed these easy winterizing instructions your jet ski will last longer and you can spray your friends while they are still messing around on the dock … enjoy next season.

Check out our Jet Ski Rentals

Finding a Marina with boat slips meeting you and your boat's needs can be a demanding task. There is a bit of advice that will help you find your next boat slip. The first is to know your boats dimensions without them you will not be able to ensure you rent the right size boat slip. Makes perfect sense right. What you will need to now are your boat's width, height and draft. 


Now the next piece of the puzzle is to know the accessibility to your boat slip. You need to know are there any obstacle that will prevent you from getting to your boat and the water in which you intend to travel. A few things to look out for are bridges and what is the water level and will it impede you from getting under these bridges and back to your boat slip.


If you have a big boat don't forget to make sure you slip is in deep water. Some marinas and slip rental places do not offer deep water slip rentals. If you can't find a deep water slip you may have to put your boat in dry dock.


If you are renting a slip from a marina there is a whole slew of factors to consider.
For example do they offer:
• Does the facility have fresh water
• Electrical hookups
• Liveaboards allowed
• Fuel at marina
• Laundry
• Internet sccess
• Groceries
• Boating supplies
• 24 hour access
• Parking
• Security
• Showers
• Lodging for guest
• Bathrooms
• Work area
• Clubhouse
• Restaurants

Waterpoint Marina offers all of these amenities. 

If you are looking for slip for you boat. 

Contact us at:
(936) 788-2628 (BOAT)
15264 Highway 105 West, 
Montgomery, TX 77356
www.waterpointmarina.com
www.facebook.com/waterpointmarina
www.twitter.com/waterpointmarin

Being able to find a great marina can be a challenge sometimes, whether it's for boat slip rentals or just for a quick fill up for gas and groceries, it's of the most vital component for a pleasant boating experience. There are plenty of marinas out there to choose from which can make your decision difficult. If your trying to choose a marina for boat dockage or just a boat rental for the day there is plenty to think about. Learning the best way to choose a marina that fits your needs can save you a bit of time.

Here are a few points for you consideration:

What are you going to need from the marina? Just looking for a home for your boat? Your needs could be minimal. If you planning on staying a while or are going to be planning a big trip it will be essential that you plan ahead and have a marina the offers all the services you need.

Here's a quick list of services to consider:
1. Are pump services available?
2. Is there marine fuel available?
3. Are there repair technicians available?
4. Is there a ship's store with essential boating supplies?
5. Are there restrooms and showers for guest use?
6. Is there overnight boat dockage at the marina?

How about resort style marinas? Here's a few thing to look for:
1. Is there a main club house with restaurant?
2. Are there outside lounge areas for relaxing and enjoying a meal or drinks?
3. Are there available on-site laundry facilities?
4. Are there recreational activities available such as a pool, outdoor sports courts or exercise room?
5. Are there cleaning crews available to clean your boat for you?

Now this is just a short list of things to consider but should get you started in the right direction. Next time your out at Lake Conroe check out Waterpoint Marina the have all the amenities you could ever need. They also offer: boat rental, jet ski rental and slip rentals both short term and long term.

Want to find that perfect boat slip for you boat? It can be a daunting task. Finding the perfect spot with temporary or permanent boat slips is a challenge. Never fear though we have a few steps that can make this process a breeze. Follow these steps for when searching for your next dock or slip.

Know your boats dimensions — Without them you won't know which slip you need to fit your boat. What you need to know are your boats width, height and draft.

How accessible is the boat slip — Does the slip provides sufficient access to the water? Can you get to your boat 24 hrs a day or just during certain hours of the day.

Marina Slips and Docks — Looking for a marina slip or dock? These can be nice since there are just about always some great amenities offered. Some things you may want to consider …
• Is there fresh water?
• Electrical hookups
• Can people actually live there?
• Is there fuel at the marina or nearby?
• Laundry
• Internet or wireless connection
• Supplies
• TV
• Showers
• Clubhouse
• Parking for you and your guest
• Restaurants nearby
• Lodging
• 24 hr access to your boat or slip
• What are the procedures the marina takes to protect your boat during bad weather?
• Does the marina offer insurance for your boat?
• Does the marina offer dry docking

Dry Docking — If you can't find a slip or a boat dock then you may want to consider a dry dock. Some marinas offer this solution. Beware that you will need to call ahead so the marina can bring your boat out of dry storage. You will not have access to your boat at the drop of a hat. There can be significant cost savings in the this solution though.

These are just a few ways to take the hassle out of looking for a boat slip. Hope it was helpful.

Well we don't mean to toot our own horn here but hey it's our blog so check out our slip rental page … [click here] or if your looking for a boat rental … [click here]

What type of boat dock is best for your boat?

First a few things to think consider before you go out and choose a boat dock. What type of boats or watercraft do you own? Are you planning to buy anymore? Does the water experience much fluctuation in water levels? Say from a drought or from one season to the next. Are there big waves the dock will have to endure? Here are the major types of docks: floating, stationary, portable and slip docks. Most of the time there are combinations of dock types that will work all needs.

Stationary and standings docks are best for salt water and places that experience repeated wave abuse. The waves can pass through the standing legs and most of the time the docks are built with wooden pilings that will not easily corrode.

Floating docks are great for deep water such as lakes and marinas. These also work well where the water levels are continually fluctuating or if the bottom is soft. This type dock should stay in the water. The typical "U" shape of floating docks stand up well to heavy waves or boat wakes from boats coming and going from a marina. Floating docks also come in "T" and "L" shapes and can be anchored in numerous ways.

These floating docks also have many types of floatation device that are used to keep them on top of the water. Make sure these are resistant to gas, saltwater and oil. If you're looking for a floating dock at a marina then most of the time you don't have to worry about all of the options but rather trust the pros and just park you boat at the dock and enjoy your slip.

This last type of boat dock is a wheeled boating dock that is ideal for a location that goes through freeze thaw cycles. This type of dock can be wheeled away when the weather changes and the water is about to freeze. There is a bit of a caveat though. The conditions need to be near perfect to use. A gradual slope to wheel it into the water and a firm lake bottom with minimal elevation. These can be handy but may be tough to find a spot perfect for one.

Armed with this advice you can go and make the right choice for your conditions. There are many options available. You can choose docks with slips that are convent for parking right at your dock/location. Most of the time these have nice decks so the suer can enjoy their time at the waterfront. Ever see a dock with a sundeck on top? These are nice for those who plan on entertaining, cooking and general fun. There are limitless combinations these are just a few so get out there and start enjoying your boat dock, sun and water.

 Need a boat slip rental? Check out our boat slip rental page here: http://waterpointmarina.com/slip-rentals.html

Looking for a place to dock your boat? Well then, look no farther my friend. Having a boat slip to dock your boat is a must. Having a slip at a marina offers convenience, security, services, amenities and a social atmosphere to enjoy. Renting a marina boat slip can be a very effective solution for many boat owners. Lets expand on the reasons to dock your boat at a marina slip shall we.

If your a busy boater or just live around the corner the convenience of having your own slip at a marina is a necessity. The ability to get everything in one place is priceless — boat, gas, food, drinks — no need to run all over the place and it's easy to meet friends and family at a huge landmark like a marina.

Now when it comes to security renting a slip at a marina is the only way to go. You can sleep soundly knowing your boat is safe and secure. Marinas tend to be gated and have security cameras. Security guards can be found patrolling the grounds at some marinas and keeping an eye on the boats in their slips.

Having your boat close to basic boating supplies is another reason to look into docking your boat at a marina. Ever get to your boat only find you need a minor repair? We all have … and it sucks. However if your boat was docked at a marina you could just grab what you need and be on your way.

Ever get off the lake and feel the need for a shower? If you rented a slip at a marina most have bathrooms, showers, fresh water, telephones, TV, internet connection, game room, just about anything you need to make your day at the lake more comfortable.

Marinas can provide opportunities for entertainment and socializing with friends too. Slip holders tend to gather for happy hours, BBQ, and just hang out and wind down after a day on the lake. Waterpoint Marina on Lake Conroe has a shopping center right next door. Offering many different restaurants, shopping a boardwalk, and more. There is also a Friday night concert during the summer.

Boat slip rental rates will vary but there are many options depending on the size of the slip you will need and the length of your stay. Marinas usually offer a daily, weekly or monthly slip rental payment schedule. Will so many significant advantages to docking your boat in a marina slip and many different payment options there is no reason to delay putting your boat in a marina boat slip.

Well it’s officially Winter. Time put away all the fun summer stuff and prepare for some cold weather. This blog post covers the process of shrink-wrapping your boat. It’s not all that hard to do and you can store your boat right in the backyard safe and sound from any elements. Below is a list of what you need to do.

1. Go our and purchase a shrink-wrap kit and any accessories you might need such as a heat gun. You can buy kits from online retailers or at any boating supply store.

2. Remove the boat from the water and transport it to a storage site

3. Pad any sharp corners that may rip the shrink-wrap.

4. Build a structure made of support poles and strapping lines over the boat to give the shrink wrap something to adhere to. Secure the structure by tying off to the stern, bow and sides of the boat.

5. Unroll the shrink-rap over the boat. Keep it from hitting the ground, as static electricity can draw dirt to the shrink-wrap. Drape the shrink-wrap down to just above the waterline on the boat.

6. Use the heat gun to heat the shrink-wrap, causing it to tighten over the support structure and to the sides of the boat. Start at the bow and work from the bottom of the shrink-wrap up, moving the gun in a wide sweeping motion. Then use a ladder repeat process on top of the boat.

7. Check over the entire boat when finished for any holes in the shrink-wrap. Patch holes with tape included in the installation kit, if necessary. Install self-adhesive vents to keep out mold and mildew that might form under the shrink wrap.

THE SHRINKING PROCESS
Once the film is on the boat (after you have heat-welded around the perimeter band) there are a few steps that can help in achieving a wrinkle-free, tight cover. You must install the belly-bands immediately after heat welding around the perimeter band on the boat. These taut straps pull the slack from the wrap allowing it to become tighter when heated. The shrinking order is as follows: Seal all pleats in cover, including the bow and stern. Begin applying heat at the bottom of the cover near one end (never in the middle). Guide the shrinking with the heat gun to the other end of the boat, up to the rub rail. Starting at the bottom of the cover allows the heat to rise and helps you shrink more quickly. Now you can shrink the top; be careful not to put excess heat on the corners or sharp protruding objects. Avoiding these areas allows the shrink-wrap to maintain its full thickness at these points.

HOLE PATROL
When the over is completely done make sure to check for any holes. The most effective way of repairing a hole is to use shrink-wrap tape which should be included in your kit. When the tape is applied it MUST be rubbed to remove air bubbles and activate the adhesives in the tape. The tape should also be lightly warmed using the gun so that the tape will adhere better.

VENTS AND DOORS
Vents and doors are installed after the cover is completely shrunk. They are not heated onto the cover at all. Vents are self-adhesive and the adhesive on them must be hand warmed and rubbed to have a complete seal. Doors are taped to the cover using either 2” or 4” shrink-wrap tape. The door is then unzipped and a hole cut underneath the zippered area.

That’s it! Your boat is all safe and sound for the winter.