New, Free Social App
Last week, the first, free social media platform designed specifically for the boating community was launched. It’s called Scuttlebutt® and it’s easy to download onto a smart phone from an App Store. The app has a map function, with wind and precipitation overlays and can tap into live weather buoy information including wave heights, wind gusts, humidity and water temperature. Scuttlebutt ® allows boaters to share on-water adventures, stories, pictures and videos, as well as comment on others in their feed – all very much like conventional social media platforms.
Scuttlebutt puts information a boater needs in the palm of their hands and eliminates the need for other social media platforms to stay in touch with boating friends. It’s easy to install and is made for both iPhone and Android devices. Use the app to find new boating friends and connect with other, likeminded anglers, cruisers, and sailors.
Scuttlebutt® was created by Erik Kyle, the owner and publisher of Great Lakes Scuttlebutt, a free glossy-paper boating magazine that is distributed across the Great Lakes area from New York state to Minnesota at 1500 mostly waterfront locations. The magazine was founded in 1992 by Erik’s father, Jerry.
Social Media for Friendly Boaters
“Boaters are the most friendly people I know,” says Kyle, “They’re always waving to each other and helping one another on the dock. It is like a big affinity club. So, it occurred to me that boaters would love to have a social media app designed specifically for them.”
With their own social media space to share stories, fun destinations, boat pictures and videos, or whatever they choose to post, the app will bring like-minded people together. “Groups, clubs, organizations or individuals can also share information about special events such as trips, regattas, races and all the activities that this unique and active community participate in,” Kyle said.
More to Come
The App has been in the making for over two years, and creating one is an expensive proposition. But there is still some exciting functionality to add which will cost even more for programming. For that reason, Erik has reached out to BoatTEST to ask us to help him complete his social app project. BoatTEST Members wishing to help complete the Scuttlebutt® social media project should go to “Kickstart” to help pay for the completion of the app – which everyone can use for free.
“Kickstarter” the App Here
If you’re unfamiliar with “Kickstarter,” it is the leading source for “crowd funding” of new, creative projects. Individuals pledge to contribute an amount of money they feel comfortable with to help Kyle reach his goal of $50,000 – but it has to be done in the next 19 days!
If the goal is reached in pledges, then everyone’s credit card is debited. If it’s not reached, then the Kickstarter page is turned off, and no one is charged. It’s a good way to know that your generous contribution will not go to waste unless all of the money needed is raised. Just 19 days left…please help launch the first boater social media app. BoatTEST has started with $500.