Member-only story

There’s Always Rough Water Ahead

Be ready to take the helm

Aaron McClure
7 min readAug 21, 2021
Identity, 1994 Chaparral 27 Signature,
My small stately vessel

One of the most consistent joys in my life is boating. I love commanding my small vessel out on the water. Having a boat has become part of my identity. I’ve owned 7 boats and my current one is the longest running ownership yet of over 10 years.

“A boat is a hole in the water you throw money into”

- Everyone who has never understood “the boat”

I have been boating now for over 22 years. Often I look back on those early days when I would be creating some “boat launch theatre” along with other mistakes and I cringe. However, without those growing pains and expensively learned lessons I certainly wouldn’t have been able to continue boating like I do now.

With all of my accrued knowledge these days, I strive to keep my boat in good standing and mechanically sound because I know the perils of going out there underprepared.

Cutting corners and having a “well, that’s good enough” attitude toward the upkeep of your vessel is costly and can be dangerous.

The most expensive thing you can do is be a cheap boater.

Get a good maintenance manual and you’ll be in good shape. They are a priceless tool to have.

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Aaron McClure
Aaron McClure

Written by Aaron McClure

Project Manager, blogger, writer. I write about the struggles of life and how to grow as a unique person. I welcome all open discussions.

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