Learn ColRegs
Rule 10: Traffic Separation Schemes.
(c) A vessel shall, so far as practicable, avoid crossing traffic lanes but if obliged to do so shall cross on a heading as nearly as practicable at right angles to the general direction of traffic flow. (d) (i) A vessel shall not use an inshore traffic zone when she can safely use the appropriate traffic lane within the adjacent traffic separation scheme. However, vessels of less than 20 metres in length, sailing vessels and vessels engaged in fishing may use the inshore traffic zone.
(From Nautical Rules of the Road – ColRegs for power boating and sailing – a Safe-Skipper App)
Boating Rules of the Road – International ColRegs
Boat Engine Failure – what to check
Fire prevention on boats
An explanation of the IALA maritime buoyage systems – IALA A and IALA B
Boat maintenance log
Understanding tides
VHF DSC radio – how best to communicate at sea
Antifouling for leisure boats – Part 4
Applying antifouling. Antifouling is best applied on a dry, calm day. It is best to apply the antifouling in the middle of the day to ensure the hull is dry and as warm as possible.
Distress flares – which flare, how & when to use?
Sailing & Motoring in Fog
Dag Pike’s Boat Survey
Stress cracks on GRP boats
It is quite common to find cracks in the gelcoat when inspecting the deck and superstructure of a GRP boat. It is important to differentiate between a gelcoat crack and a scratch.
Top 5 Reasons Why an Inflatable SUP Should Be Your Next Yacht Accessory
What boating skills should you have before you buy a yacht?
Getting a tow for your sail or power boat at sea or on inland waterways
Boat surveys
Cleaning & polishing gelcoat topsides
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 an-ything that could potentially damage its surface.
Man Overboard Drill
Keel maintenance and repair – Part 1
Keels are designed to act as underwater foils that generate lift as the boat moves through the water, counteracting the leeward force of the wind and enabling the boat to sail closer to the wind. Keel maintenance and repair is essential for the performance of your boat.
