Naming a boat always raises questions. How will people react? How will it look? Why not take the safe route and put it to the test before you make a decision.

You can read Mad Mariner's story on common mistakes, and look at our table of overused boat names to make sure you are not Owner #382 to have that particular flash of inspiration. There are also other places to turn for help.

To see how people may react, go to BoatNameGame.com. These guys will tell you what they think of the name and what it says about you. They describe themselves as "brutally humorous," and they mean it. Expect to hear the worst case scenario – and to get a chuckle. We recommend that you subject yourself to the test, if you can stand it.

One way to see how your lettering might look is to visit the BoatUS page on graphics and lettering. BoatUS sells lettering and offers video instruction on how to apply it, if you are thinking about doing it yourself. But they also allow you to preview the name in various fonts, sizes and colors, free of charge. It is useful to see the name before it graces your transom.

Of course, the best test is to bounce names off your friends and family. They too are brutally humorous and will give you the truth. And, of course, stay away from Serenity. There really are at least 381 people who had this idea, according to Coast Guard records. And let's face it: boats aren't always serene. Your friends will remind you of that next time the windlass jams.

- Glen Justice

GLEN JUSTICE