The most useful items on Connie Peacock's Ericson 28 are:

1. Fanny-pack type life jacket

2. Handheld GPS

3. Gatorade

4. Battery- operated tealights to add ambiance to an evening meal onboard

5. Headlamp for night chores or an evening dinghy ride to the boat

Bill Cullen says:

1.Shademaker

A large sunshade that protects the cockpit from the afternoon sun as it dips below the bimini.

2. Chamois

For wiping up moisture in the cockpit, whether it’s rain, morning dew or spray. 

3. Looky Bucket

For checking your anchor set and checking out snorkeling spots before diving in.

4. Jiggler syphon hoses

One for fuel, one for water. They’re simple, inexpensive and they really work well. 

5. Cabin fans

I have seven—five fixed and two portable. They make life aboard in the tropics much more comfortable.

What would you add to this list? Le us know at sailmail@sailmagazine.com.

Photo (top) by Bill Cullen