boat engine Archives - Safe Skipper Boating & Safety Afloat Apps for phones & tablets

Learning about diesel engine maintenance

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...

Engine failure at sea – keeping the boat safe

by Simon Jollands | Boat Maintenance, Preparation, Yacht ownership

If the engine stops when you are underway, or your have to shut it down when a warning buzzer sounds, you also need to make sure the boat remains safe. This is no problem if you’re in open water with no dangers nearby, at least for the short term. However, this is not...

Engine failure at sea – common causes and how to avoid them

by Simon Jollands | Boat Maintenance, Preparation, Yacht ownership

Providing they are regularly serviced and maintained, modern marine diesel engines tend to be very reliable. However, they are by no means infallible and a large percentage of lifeboat rescues are to leisure vessels with engine failure. Fortunately, a handful of...

Preparing for sailboat cruising

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

Preparing for a sailing trip entails a lot of planning. In this blog, we take a look at some of the many safety aspects that a skipper needs to consider before heading off on a cruise. The degree of preparation, knowledge and equipment needed for cruising will vary...

Five dangers a vessel may encounter at sea

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

What are the main dangers a vessel may face at sea and what should skippers do to reduce the risk of these happening? Collisions with other vessels The Collision Regulations apply to “all vessels upon the high seas and in all waters connected therewith navigable...