As the Northern Hemisphere shakes off winter and spring-cleaning gets under way, many sailors are busy with do-it-yourself projects, the usual marine maintenance fun, and prepping for summer sailing. Here are some archive articles to help you tick off the tasks on your to-do list.
DO-IT-YOURSELF
For the DIYer, we have a slew of possible spring projects worthy of your time. Cruisers will want to look into the trysail-track refit report (May 2012) and the blog post on how to build your own custom medical kit (Inside Practical Sailor, June 12, 2014; July 2014 PS issue). Keep the boat cooler this summer by installing some DIY fiberglass hatch covers (March 2016). For the maintenance-minded, there’s a comprehensive look at gelcoat restoration in the June 30, 2014 Inside Practical Sailor blog, as well as articles on DIY blister repair (February 2011) and re-doing your teak decks (June 2011). If your spring chores include sanding off bottom paint or teak, check out the how-to for a DIY dustless sanding bucket in the April 2016 issue.
MAINTENANCE
Wondering what the best products are for those spring-summer cleaning jobs? Be sure to read our test reports on boat soaps (January 2013), waterline stain removers (April 2014 and November 2007), isinglass/clear-vinyl cleaners and protectors (May 2014 and March 2009), and hull waxes and polishes (Inside Practical Sailor blog April 9, 2014 and July 2014 PS issue).
Warm-weather safety
The editor’s blog “Sun Protection and Sunscreen for Sailors” (May 13, 2014) contains links to a library of reports on UV-protective shirts, hats, and sunscreens that we’ve tested. Are those Oakley’s really worth $200? Our June 2017 article “Boating Eyeware Guarantee” finds out. One of the most often overlooked safety precautions for sailors in warm climates is staying hydrated on the water. In the June 2010 issue, we took a look at why hydrating is important and the best ways to stay hydrated at sea.
Safety
Our archives are overflowing with safety-gear tests and tips articles. Check out our safety tethers (September 2011) and PFD-harness tests (July 2013 and August 2008), and the feature on life-raft inspections (February 2013). In 2012, we reported on three racing accidents, each with important lessons for all sailors: WingNuts capsize (April 2012), Rambler 100 capsize (May 2012), and the Low Speed Chase (Farallones) capsize (June 2012). And in “Practical Tips for Survival at Sea” (June 2013), author Michael Tougias offers advice from survivors on what they would have done differently and what helped them survive. For a compilation of decades of PS safety tests and advice articles, check out the “MOB Prevention and Recovery” ebook, which is available at https://www.practical-sailor.com/products.