cruising tip
At The Helm: Man Overboard!
Imagine this simple scenario: the boat’s powered up, sailing close-hauled in a building breeze under full sail. I come on deck as the skipper during the watch change to make sure the new crew is comfortable and the boat is properly set up for both the current conditions and ...read more
Charter News: Checking In?
Checking in and out of different countries or islands while on a bareboat charter may be necessary, but the process can be a time-consuming and expensive proposition. Not only do you have to check out of the first port but also into the second, and then vice versa. Rinse and ...read more
Sketchbook: Chain Grip
A pawl on the stemhead roller acts like a ratchet—it lets you pull chain in, but prevents it from running out while you have a rest. In waves, let a rising bow help pull in the chain. B. The “spring” that holds the pawl on the chain can be a shock cord that also acts as a ...read more
Know how: Varnishing your Sailboat
There are few boatowners who have never walked the docks and marveled at a beautifully varnished rail or hatch cover. Even boats with no exterior varnish often have some brightwork down below; fiddles, door frames, bookshelves, and mast supports are often finished bright to ...read more