By Dennison Berwick (Voyage Press, $15.99)
If you’re not mechanically inclined, even the simplest maintenance tasks on a diesel engine and its associated paraphernalia can be daunting. There are plenty of books on the subject, but many of them assume a certain level of knowledge and others are poorly illustrated. Dennison Berwick literally starts with the basics and leads the reader through the process of understanding how engines and drivetrains work, and what’s needed to keep them working. Step-by-step instructions accompanied by excellent drawings take you through winterizing and commissioning procedures and much more. The best guide on the subject I’ve seen, this book has a place on every diesel-equipped boat. — Peter Nielsen
IN BRIEF
Gamming it Up
The Seven Seas Cruising Association (SSCA)’s largest Gam (gathering) of the year will be held in Truxton Park, Annapolis, Maryland, on September 29 and 30, just before the start of the United States Sailboat show. The Gam gets underway with a dinghy raft-up on Friday, followed by a full roster of presentations and seminars on Saturday and Sunday. If Annapolis won’t work for you, there are other SSCA Gams this year in Essex, Connecticut, in June; Rockland, Maine, in July; and Melbourne, Florida, in November. For more information, visit ssca.org.
How to be Safe
There’s nothing as important on the water as keeping yourself and your crew safe, which is why the latest online course from Boater’s University is a no-brainer. The goal of the Safety and Rescue at Sea course is to prepare you to be as safe as possible when heading offshore. Compiled and presented by former USCG rescue swimmer Mario Vittone, the course is full of practical tips for dealing with on-water emergencies and prepare yourself and your boat for when trouble strikes. It’s the latest in a series of online courses from Boater’s University. Others include Marine Diesel Maintenance & Troubleshooting and Fundamentals of Seamanship: Navigation Rules. For details, go to boatersuniversity.com.
June 2018
