The Internet has been a wonderful tool for the recreational boating public. Need information on a specific brand of vessel? Check the ‘Net. Trying to locate the new electric chart systems? Check the Internet. Need information on a specific customs requirement in Anguilla? Check the Internet.

The latest Web site that I have come across that recreational boaters need to know about is the POISE = Port Operations Information for Safety and Efficiency. It allows a boater who was planning a visit or being transferred to quickly find the information that they need.

I looked at the East Coast, then the Hampton Roads link within POISE and found a ton of information. There are links to different Coast Guard units, Rulemaking information, links to the Virginia Port Authority and Local Notice to Mariners. There were links for buoy information from NOAA and Tropical Storm and hurricane updates.

There’s

weather information both in- and offshore.

Other ports along the east coast that have links within this system include Baltimore, Boston, Charlestown, Jacksonville, Long Island, Miami, New York, Philadelphia, Savannah, Wilm-ington, Providence and Portland.

The POISE site was designed by the Coast Guard as a port safety-focused path to information that an average boater would need on a port. Note that POISE is not is a navigational tool, pathway to commercial sources or proprietary information.

Another good site for information is http://www.ports.com/. This site has 902 ports in 105 countries to chose from. Almost every port in the United States, has excellent Web sites to find. For example, if you were headed to Florida and wanted to stop in Cape Canaveral, you would visit the official site at http://www.portcanaveral.org. There is information on events, weather, where to moor your boat and even shore side restaurants! All just a click away.

Looking at a Web site and studying chart information for a new port allows you to become familiar with it. What if you encounter a freak storm and have to battle your way in or out? At least you know where you are headed. Alos, you will quickly get comfortable with local requirements and information. Information like tides and currents are available, and is very important in planning a perfect cruise.

Checking the Internet for official port data and starting first with the USCG POISE site is another tool to help boat safe, and boat smart.

Joe DiRenzo is a regular News-Herald columnist.