by Stuart Batley | Boat Maintenance, Preparation, Yacht ownership
Navigating narrow channels can present challenges for boat operators due to limited space, restricted maneuverability, and potential hazards such as shallows, rocks, or other vessels. To ensure safe passage through narrow channels, it’s essential to follow...
by Safe Skipper | Boat Maintenance, Preparation, Yacht ownership
Owning a boat is not just about cruising the open waters; it’s also about customising and improving your vessel to suit your needs and preferences. While some boat upgrades can be expensive, there are plenty of budget-friendly DIY projects that can enhance both...
by Safe Skipper | Boat Maintenance, Preparation, Yacht ownership
Boating is a cherished pastime for many, offering freedom, relaxation, and adventure. However, as with any valuable possession, boats are susceptible to theft and vandalism. Protecting your vessel from these risks requires a proactive approach to boat security. In...
by Safe Skipper | Boat Maintenance, Preparation, Yacht ownership
Marine diesel engines are internal combustion engines that are designed specifically for use in maritime applications. These engines are commonly used in a variety of watercraft, ranging from small boats and yachts to large ships and vessels. Here are some key aspects...
by Simon Jollands | Boat Handling, Communications, Crewing skills, Emergencies, Navigation, Preparation, Yacht ownership
This is our third and final article about the 2023 Rolex Fastnet Race. It is a first hand account by Simon Jollands who was one of the crew of Lancelot II, a Beneteau First 40 skippered by John Gillard. The Fastnet Race is named after the Fastnet Rock, which the...
by Stuart Batley | Boat Handling, Communications, Crewing skills, Emergencies, Navigation, Preparation
Picture this: you’re out on a serene lake or cruising along a beautiful coastline in your motor boat, enjoying the wind in your hair and the gentle lapping of the water against your vessel. However, amidst the bliss of boating lies a lurking danger –...
by Simon Jollands | Boat Handling, Communications, Crewing skills, Emergencies, Navigation, Preparation, Yacht ownership
Simon Jollands took part in the 2023 Rolex Fastnet Race. This is the second of his articles on the race aboard Lancelot II, a Beneteau First 40. The first night of the 2023 Rolex Fastnet Race proved to be a major challenge for the fleet, including us. Many yachts...
by Simon Jollands | Boat Handling, Communications, Crewing skills, Emergencies, Navigation, Preparation, Yacht ownership
Simon Jollands took part in the 2023 Rolex Fastnet Race. This is the first of several articles on the race and focuses on the start. The 2023 Rolex Fastnet Race proved to be a classic offshore sailing event that lived up to its reputation as being one of the toughest...
by Simon Jollands | Communications, Crewing skills, Emergencies, Navigation, Preparation
This year’s Round the Island Race turned out to be a really thrilling and competitive event. 1100 boats entered the race, which took place on Saturday 1st July. The race started from the world famous Royal Yacht Squadron line in Cowes UK, with the largest and...
by Simon Jollands | Communications, Crewing skills, Emergencies, Navigation, Preparation
It is one of those sailing facts of life that, however hard you try to avoid it, sooner or later you will most likely find yourself aground. It has happened to me twice. Once when I was on a RYA training vessel near the entrance to Beaulieu River in the Western...