Half-Year Highlights - The Best of BB So Far in 2026

With both Canada Day and Independence Day being celebrated this week, it suddenly dawned on us that we'd reached the halfway point of the year.

Although we are only technically 10 days into the 'official' summer season in the Northern Hemisphere, there are 183 days until New Years Eve, meaning it'll be snowing before you know it and the boats will be back in storage.

That anxiety is enough to remind us that it's time to recap what's happened in boating so far in 2026.

There is no sugarcoating that some of the big stories drew attention for sad reasons, but there is sugarcoating available for the fact that boaters like to stay informed. Whether it's industry news, helpful tips and tricks, or simpy the latest gossip, boaters like to stay in the loop.

We like that.

Here are the Top 10 stories on BB so far in 2026:

1) Beneteau Shuttering Michigan Plant, Divesting from Four Winns, Scarab, and Glastron

Groupe Beneteau announced plans to close its Cadillac, Michigan manufacturing facility in late 2026 and divest from three of boating's longest standing brands - Four Winns, Glastron, and Scarab. Read more.

2) The One Boating Rule That Can Make You Partly Responsible for Someone Else’s Mistake

Even if another boater clearly causes a collision, you could still be found partly responsible under a little-known boating regulation - the COLREGS Rule #2, also known as the "Responsibility Rule." We break down the simple habits you can deploy to help protect both you and your boat from liability. Read more.

3) Estimating Boat Fuel Consumption: A Practical Guide for Boaters

Wondering how much fuel your boat really burns? We put together a practical guide that explains the simple formulas behind fuel consumption, the factors that affect it, and how to accurately estimate your fuel needs so you don't get range anxiety. Read more.

4) Changes to Canadian Pleasure Craft Licence (PCL) Now in Effect

Canada's updated Pleasure Craft Licence (PCL) regulations are now in effect, and boaters were initially confused. The changes apply primarily to Pleasure Craft License (PCL) registrations, which now have an expiry date, and not Pleasure Craft Operating Licenses (PCOC). We outline what's changed, who the new requirements apply to, and what you need to know to stay compliant. Read more.

5) The Top 5 Recreational Boating Countries in the World

From boat ownership rates, to marina infrastructure, to coastline beauty and boating culture, which countries rank among the world's top recreational boating destinations? We examine the data behind the five nations that stand out and discuss what makes each one worthy of a visit (and a nautical adventure). Read more.

6) West Marine Files for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy Protection

One of North America's largest marine retailers filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in May, marking a significant development across the entire recreational boating industry for both retailers and consumers alike. We discuss what led to the filing, what it means for West Marine goinf forward, and what customers and suppliers can expect with one boating's most well-known brands. Read more.

7) Five Iconic Movie and TV Boats That Left a Lasting Mark on Boating Culture

Some boats become just as memorable as the characters who captained them. We look back at five of the most iconic boats from movies and television, from the Orca to The Stugots, and explore the vessels that left a lasting mark on pop culture. Read more.

8) My Story From the Demise of OMC

The fall of OMC, arguably boating's biggest and most influential company ever, was shocking and devastating. The rippling effects are still being felt today. Captain Bill was there when a simple engine test for media members went horribly awry and discusses how that one small event triggered a massive response. Read more.

9) A Dilemma Every Boater Will Face

Sooner or later, every boater encounters a vessel that appears to be in trouble, but should you stop to help? While it's human nature to immediately say 'yes,' Captain Bill explains the legal obligations, the risks involved, and gives you a practical step-by-step approach to assisting another boater so you don't find yourself in the legal hotseat for trying to do the right thing. Read more.

10) Boat Battery Basics - Construction, Applications, Wiring Setups, & Maintenance

Who knew batteries could be so interesting? A boat's battery powers everything from the engine starting to onboard electronics, but finding the right setup isn't always straightforward. BB contributor Andrew McDonald walks you through different battery types, common wiring configurations, maintenance practices, and the key differences between starting, deep-cycle, AGM, lithium, and dual-purpose batteries. Read more. #news #culture