According to Boat US, boats sinking at docks account for a disproportionate number of insurance claims. Frankly, I’m not surprised. Even a modest boat often has six or seven through-hull fittings below the waterline. Should one of these fail, the inrush of water will swiftly sink the boat
I see wire nuts on boats all too often. Many times they are installed by an owner as a temporary measure, “just to make sure it’s working,” or by electricians more used to working on houses than boats. Just to be clear—wire nuts have no place afloat…
Splicing three-strand rope is a fairly straightforward process and a useful skill. Splicing joins together two ropes of equal diameter and does not weaken the rope to the same extent that tying a knot does.
Carrying everything from extra nuts and bolts to blocks and batteries could be essential to the safety of your boat.
As a wooden-boat owner I spend large amounts of time each winter and spring painting and varnishing. Slapping on a few extra coats will simply not do. Here’s my essential equipment for the best finish.
If you live in a warm climate and the boat stays in all year, you should keep a close eye on its underbody
Any brightwork on your boat, inside or out, needs regular maintenance to stay in top condition. Varnishes are expected to fulfill two important functions—they enhance the natural beauty of the wood and protect it from the elements.
Whatever the reason, re-marking the waterline fills many sailors with dread. Get it right, and the resulting perfect boottop between contrasting bottom paint and the hull will be stunning. Get it wrong, and your shaky paint job will stick out like the proverbial sore thumb.
Your ropes and lines are a very important part of your boat’s inventory. Mark Corke offers some advice on cleaning and care.
Of all the things that scare boat owners the most, sinking is probably at the top of the list. But fire is no less of a threat. Indeed, a fire, even if you manage to put it out, can easily lead to a sinking.
The sailing world has lost another great this week in the passing of John Rousmaniere, author of Fastnet Force 10 and numerous other sailing texts.
As a yacht broker, many people have talked to me about wanting to buy a boat, learning to sail, and then taking their own boat
A new flagship elevates an iconic and evergreen cruising brand.
I’ve been racing aboard a new boat this summer, and it’s gotten me thinking a lot about crew dynamics and what makes a good teammate.
How em-trak’s new X100 is simplifying communication and safety at the helm.
America’s longest running regatta for adaptive sailors took place last weekend in Chicago’s Burnham Park Harbor.
While everyone in the multihull market seems to be zigging, Aquila Catamarans has decided to zag. Renowned for their comfortable and spacious powercats, Aquila has
The American Sailing Association has partnered with the navigation app for use in a new Electronic Navigation course as well as their regular offerings.
The Everglades Challenge is a race, an adventure, and a test of character all at once.
Why one sailor went back in time one hundred years to find the perfect boat.
