Preparation Archives - Page 20 of 29 - Safe Skipper Boating & Safety Afloat Apps for phones & tablets

Cleaning & polishing gelcoat topsides

by Simon Jollands | Boat Maintenance, Preparation, Yacht ownership

The gelcoat topsides of a GRP boat can be pampered and restored to their former glory relatively easily when it is ashore. Gelcoat is only a very thin outer layer of the hull, often less than 1mm thick, so you should avoid cleaning it with highly abrasive cleaners, or...

Boatyard Health and Safety

by Simon Jollands | Boat Maintenance, Preparation, Yacht ownership

Boat storage facilities are potentially hazardous environments and it is the responsibility of both boat owners and boatyards to ensure that the safety of those working on boats and those nearby are given top priority. Read on for some tips and guidelines to help keep...

Understanding marine sealants & adhesives

by Simon Jollands | Boat Maintenance, Preparation

Sealants, adhesives and adhesive sealantsThere is a bewildering variety of sealants, adhesives and even adhesive sealants available for marine use. When making a choice it helps to understand some fundamentals about all the chemical wizardry that has created this vast...

Tools and spares for your boat

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

It is wise to have a comprehensive and well-organised tool kit and a supply of spares for your boat. This is both for routine maintenance and to deal with unexpected breakages and equipment failure at sea. Read on for some tips and advice on what you need… You...

Boat maintenance log

by Simon Jollands | Boat Maintenance, Preparation, Yacht ownership

Keeping a boat maintenance log is an ideal way of reminding owners what needs to be done to a boat and when. Read on for some tips, advice and a sample maintenance log. However keen you may be to work on your boat, organising yourself can be challenging on occasions....

Boat surveys

by Simon Jollands | Boat Maintenance, Preparation, Yacht ownership

A full boat survey assesses the condition of the hull, mechanical gear and means of propulsion. The survey is carried out with the boat ashore in order to be able to properly inspect the hull and rudder.A professional boat survey involves a thorough inspection that...