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

Boat engine basics

by Simon Jollands | Boat Maintenance, Preparation, Yacht ownership

Boat engines come in all shapes and sizes and include inboards, outboards, petrol, diesel, electric and hybrid systems. Some engines are far more complex than others and should only be looked after by qualified engineers while others can be maintained fairly easily by...

Capsize – understanding the risks

by Simon Jollands | Boat Handling, Emergencies, Preparation

A skipper should know how their boat will cope with rough seas. By working within known limits and understanding the risks, then the chances of a capsize occurring are much reduced. Safety is all about improving the odds. When considering the odds of a boat capsizing,...

Rig check – how to prevent failure at sea

by Simon Jollands | Boat Handling, Boat Maintenance, Preparation

Regular rig checks prevent the risk of mast and rigging failure at sea. This includes regular rig inspections of the spars, rigging and fittings, especially before a major passage at sea. Most rig failures are caused by poor maintenance and breakage of the...

Anchoring – getting it right is not always straightforward

by Simon Jollands | Boat Handling, Crewing skills, Preparation

If you can set an anchor correctly with confidence and know your boat will be safe in a secure anchorage, then you can rest in comfort and will not need to rely on moorings and marinas when cruising. Anchoring is one of the most important boat handling skills. If you...

Boat Handling – anchoring

by Simon Jollands | Boat Handling, Crewing skills, Preparation

Anchoring your yacht or motorboat Anchoring is one of the most important boat handling skills. If you can set an anchor correctly with confidence and know your boat will be safe in a secure anchorage, then you can rest in comfort and will not need to rely on moorings...