Facts and Fictions on Social Media

We all spend a lot of time on the internet and using all types of social media. Over the last few years dozens of Facebook groups have been formed focused on boating, sailing, cruising, boat buying and much more. These groups spawn a sense of community and provide a forum for people to ask questions of each other and seek advice. This morning in one group a member inquired about finding a fiberglass expert in Ft. Lauderdale and several members came right back and recommended a well-known local fiberglass professional. Great. But, we also see numerous instances of advice going in the wrong direction, particularly technical advice on gear and equipment. Most of us are not marine professionals but instead we’re active enthusiasts who have varying degrees of experience and expertise. It is often the case that a boat owner will have knowledge of and experience with only the specifics of his own boats and may not have an otherwise wide knowledge base. But, this doesn’t seem to stop those with limited knowledge from actively offering advice. We’re all entitled to an opinion but wouldn’t you prefer to get advice from a professional than an eager amateur. So, be careful of what you read on social media and when possible reach out to veteran yacht brokers, marine surveyors, electronics professionals and professional captains to gain a veteran mariner’s expert advice. Their businesses all depend on their reputations, so you can by and large expect straight and honest and useful answers to your questions.