Practical boating tips

Winch Servicing

by Simon Jollands | Boat Maintenance, Preparation

It is not essential to service the winches when a boat is ashore, but if time allows I prefer to do this maintenance job when the boat is on dry land, mainly because the retaining clips, pawls and pawl springs can easily go flying overboard as a winch is dismantled,...

Repairing a leaking hull-to-deck joint

by Simon Jollands | Boat Maintenance, Preparation

If you suspect a hull-to-deck joint has failed, then being absolutely sure where the actual leak is occurring is of prime importance. Areas to check are near the deck fittings, where the decks may be put under considerable stress by the rigging and the continued...

Top five windvane self steering installation questions

Hull inspection – the annual checks

by Simon Jollands | Boat Maintenance, Preparation, Yacht ownership

With the boat ashore for the winter it is time to do a hull inspection – the annual checks. Are there any scratches and chips in the gelcoat? What about the rudder and keel? Are there any signs of osmosis? Do you have records and checklists to help ensure no...

Feeling anxious at sea

by Simon Jollands | Boat Maintenance, Preparation, Yacht ownership

Some people feel anxious at sea. Will they be seasick? What if they get caught in a violent storm? Could the boat capsize or sink? What if they fall overboard? If a crew member is feeling anxious at sea then they may need reassuring by their crew mates. They...

Seasickness – how can you prevent it?

by Simon Jollands | Boat Maintenance, Crewing skills, Emergencies, Preparation, Yacht ownership

Seasickness is a common problem at sea and affects both seasoned sailors and novices. What are the causes and symptoms of seasickness? How can you prevent seasickness and what medications can you take?It can take time to acclimatise to a boat moving around beneath you...

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SafeSkipper

6 days ago

⚓️ Pre-start engine checks = fewer breakdowns at seaNearly 1 in 3 marine callouts are caused by mechanical failure - many avoidable with a simple routine before you start up!!🔧 Key checks to run through:❑ Cooling system clear & water flowing❑ Fuel level (plus reserve) & clean filters❑ Engine & gearbox oil topped up❑ Belts, hoses & leaks inspected❑ Battery switched on & electrics set❑ Seacocks open & raw water filter clean❑ Bilge blower run (if fitted)👍 Bottom line: a quick pre-start check can prevent costly breakdowns, improve safety, and give peace of mind before heading out.More tips here: safe-skipper.com/pre-start-engine-checks/#BoatingSafety #Seamanship #PreDepartureChecks #Sailing #Yachting #SafetyAtSea #Boating #Watercraft #Sailboat #SafeSkipper ... See MoreSee Less

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6 days ago

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