Replacing Your Boat Horn for a More Insistent Sound

Replacing Your Boat Horn for a More Insistent Sound

If you’re like many boaters, you may have been underwhelmed by the stock horn that comes with your boat. For example, the horn on a North River Seahawk is often compared to the sound of a '80s Toyota Corolla — not exactly the booming, authoritative sound you’re looking for. So how can you replace it with something that commands attention and makes other boaters think twice?

1. Why Upgrade Your Boat Horn?

There are several reasons you might consider upgrading your boat horn:

• Better Sound Quality: A more insistent, deep tone can make your presence on the water known, especially in areas with high traffic.
• Safety: An effective horn can help alert others to your presence in foggy conditions, avoiding potential accidents.
• Custom Look: A prominent, more powerful horn can add an element of personality to your boat.

2. What Type of Horn Should You Choose?

When choosing a new horn, it's important to consider your boat’s needs. You want something that’s loud, but also practical in terms of power consumption and installation. There are several options:

• Diesel Train Horns: These are very loud and dramatic, with 3-4 horn tubes. They use an air compressor setup, making them a bit more complex but certainly attention-grabbing.
• Electric Horns: If you're looking for something simpler, electric horns that use 5 amps of direct current are a great choice. Brands like Yaetech, MegaBlast, and Viking Horns offer high-quality options with a more practical installation process.
• Single or Dual Trumpet Horns: For a deep, resonant sound, single or dual trumpet horns are excellent. Many boaters use them for their Detroit-like sound, and they’re easy to install with a 12V system.

3. Where to Install Your New Horn?

Depending on the design of your boat, you’ll have a few different installation options. On the North River Seahawk, the open deck and formed-over surface at the gunnel could offer a good space to mount the horn. Here are some common areas to consider:

• Bow: Mounting underneath the bow is ideal for horns that won’t get too much exposure to the elements.
• Cabin: If you have space on the side of the cabin (around 2” vertical by 2’ horizontal), this could be a great spot for a more prominent, visible horn.
• Gunnel: You could also mount the horn on top of the 6-inch wide horizontal surface around the gunnel for easy access and visibility.

4. Final Thoughts: A Unique Sound for Your Boat

Replacing your boat horn with something that offers a surprising effect can not only improve your safety but also make a statement. Whether you choose a train horn or a more straightforward electric horn, the key is selecting a sound that fits your boat and your boating style. So, take your time, choose wisely, and get ready to make a louder, more insistent presence on the water.