When it comes to pontoon docks, a tinnie is an essential companion. From fishing and recreational boating to general water exploration, these small vessels provide the perfect platform for having fun on the open waters.
At Micks Marine Maintenance, we specialise in pontoon docks and understand that owning a tinnie is one of the best ways to make the most of your pontoon dock.
Before investing in a tinnie, it’s important to consider its purpose so you can make an informed decision about which type to buy.
In this blog post, we will provide an overview of the main considerations when it comes to investing in your own tinnie so that you can make an informed decision and get the most out of your purchase.
Purpose of the Tinnie
At Micks Marine Maintenance, we understand that buying a tinnie is an important decision that must be taken seriously. Whether you are looking for a fishing vessel or just want to explore the open waters, there are many factors to consider before investing in your own tinnie.
The most important factor to consider when buying a tinnie is its purpose.
Fishing
If you are looking for a vessel primarily for fishing, you should purchase one with an open platform that allows easy access to the water. This design ensures that you can easily move around while casting your lines and makes it easier to catch fish.
Recreational boating
A tinnie is ideal for those looking for a vessel primarily for leisurely boating activities such as exploring lakes, rivers, and coastal areas. Their design provides stability on the waters and plenty of space for friends and family to enjoy the fun.
Water sports
If you are looking for a tinnie to use for water sports such as wakeboarding, water skiing, and tubing, then look at purchasing one with an inflatable design. This style of tinnie is perfect for providing stability in the roughest waters without sacrificing speed and performance.
Diving and Snorkeling
A tinnie is also ideal for those looking to take on diving or snorkelling excursions. They are perfect for exploring the ocean’s depths because they can easily take divers and their gear to faraway places.
Rescue and Emergency Services
Tinnies are perfect for rescue and emergency services in remote areas. They provide excellent stability on the water and can easily transport search and rescue teams to their destination.
Transport and Goods
Tinnies can also be used to transport people and goods in remote areas where larger boats cannot navigate. By investing in a tinnie, you can easily transport yourself and your cargo to these areas with ease.
Family Fun
Finally, tinnies are perfect for spending time on the water with family and friends for activities such as picnics, swimming, and sunbathing. Whether a quick trip to Tipplers at South Straddie or a day out at the Spit, tinnies are perfect for all sorts of fun activities with family and friends.
It’s worth noting that the specific use of a Tinnie will vary based on the boat’s size, design, and features, as well as local laws and regulations.
Size of the Tinnie
Once you’ve decided on the purpose of your tinnie, it’s essential to consider the size. At Micks Marine Maintenance, we specialise in pontoon docks, so we understand the importance of selecting the right size tinnie for your needs and the size of your pontoon dock. Thankfully, there’s not too much worry here because even small pontoons are suited to tinnies.
The size of your tinnie must also be right for the number of people and equipment you plan to carry onboard. Small tinnies are perfect for one or two people, while medium and large tinnies can comfortably seat up to six people and come with plenty of storage space for equipment.
It’s also important to consider what engine you want in your tinnie. If you’re looking for something with more power, then an outboard engine is the way to go, while an inboard engine is fine for those wanting quieter and less powerful engines. Ultimately, the choice between an inboard and an outboard engine will depend on the size of the boat, what it will be used for, and your preferences.
Type of Tinnie
Once you’ve decided on the purpose and size of your tinnie, the next step is to determine which type of tinnie is best suited for your needs. The type of tinnie you choose will depend on various factors, such as the intended use, budget, and personal preference.
The most common types of tinnies are Dory style, Flat bottomed, and Inflatable.
- Dory-style tinny: Dory-style tinnies feature a flat-bottomed design with a pointed bow and stern. This type is great for leisurely activities such as fishing and exploring rivers, lakes, and bays.
- Flat-bottomed style tinny: This type of tinnie features a flat-bottomed hull design, which is great for stability when fishing and exploring rivers, lakes, and bays. These tinnies are also perfect for travelling in shallow waters because they can easily navigate over shoals and reefs.
- Inflatable tinny: Inflatable tinnies are perfect for those looking for a lightweight and portable option. They’re ideal for fishing and leisure activities but can also be used for rescue and emergency services.
Safety Features
At Micks Marine Maintenance, we understand the importance of safety when it comes to tinnies. That’s why we recommend considering key safety features when purchasing one.
Lifejackets are a must-have for anyone who plans to spend time on the water in their tinnie. Even if you know how to swim, you need a lifejacket to keep you safe and give you extra buoyancy if you need it.
It’s also important to invest in flares and a fire extinguisher, as these items can help save your life in the event of an emergency. Lastly, we recommend investing in buoyancy aids and Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRB). These items are designed to help locate you if something goes wrong.
The same applies to your dock. You need to ensure it offers the same level of safety, and you can easily do this with the addition of pontoon safety features. Learn more about theses here.
Budget
When it comes to budgeting for your tinnie, there are several factors you need to consider. The most important factor is the purchase price, which will depend on the size, type, and features of the tinnie you choose. You should also consider any taxes and registration costs associated with buying a boat. Other costs you need to consider are maintenance, insurance, fuel, and berthing fees if you don’t have your own pontoon dock.
Conclusion
At Micks Marine Maintenance, we understand the importance of selecting the right tinnie for your needs, pontoon, and budget. We’ve outlined some key considerations to help you make an informed decision when buying a tinnie, including purpose, size, type, safety features, and budget.
If you have any questions or would like a quote for your pontoon dock to eliminate berthing fees, don’t hesitate to get in touch with the pontoon dock experts at Micks Marine Maintenance.