Part I: Getting On the Right Boating Track.

Chapter 1: Powering Up to Be a Boater.

Chapter 2: Choosing the Right Boat Type and Engine for Your Boating Needs.

Chapter 3: Finding and Buying the Right Boat for You.

Chapter 4: Accessorizing Your Boat for Safety and Fun.

Part II: Safely Operating Your Boat.

Chapter 5: Towing Your Boat and Maintaining Your Trailer.

Chapter 6: Launching and Loading Your Trailered Boat.

Chapter 7: Hitting the Open Water: Driving Your Boat.

Chapter 8: Docking, Rafting Up, and Anchoring.

Part III: With Much Boating Fun Comes Much Responsibility.

Chapter 9: Rules Do Apply: Navigating to Avoid Collisions and Confusion.

Chapter 10: Finding Your Way on the Water.

Chapter 11: Navigating Bad Weather.

Chapter 12: Preparing for and Handling Boating Emergencies.

Part IV: Keeping Your Boat Shipshape.

Chapter 13: Keeping Up with Routine Boat Maintenance.

Chapter 14: Getting Your Boat Ready for Winter and Spring.

Chapter 15: Repairing Leaks and Other Damage to Your Boat.

Part V: Enjoying Your Boat.

Chapter 16: Finding a Safe Harbor for Your Boat.

Chapter 17: The Well-Fed Boater.

Chapter 18: Getting Your Feet Wet with Boat Clubs.

Part VI: The Part of Tens.

Chapter 19: Ten Tactics That Separate Pros from Amateurs.

Chapter 20: Ten Important Items to Keep Onboard.

Chapter 21: Ten (Plus Two) Mechanical Checks for Buying a Pre-Owned Boat.

Index.