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Safety & Seamanship

Safe Options for Stowing LPG on Deck

Disposable propane cylinders are darn handy, powering stern-rail grills, propane torches and catalytic cabin heaters. I’ve also had the valves fail twice, the result...
1978 Islander Bahama 30 that we’ve owned for just over 20 years. We keep her in good condition and therefore she is relatively easy for us to insure. (Photo/ Bert Vermeer)

Insurance For Older Sailboats

In our modern, risk-adverse world there is seldom the opportunity to stand alone, to be self-insured as it were. Gone are the days that...
The author in his j70 coaching role, giving a chalk talk. (Photo/ Nick Van Antwerp)

Navigating the Learning Curve: Insights from a Sailing Instructor

I think of sailing as a lifelong pursuit. Mastery of sailing is elusive, there is always more to learn, from leading a new position...
We asked insurance companies how much it would cost to insure the popular Beneteau Oceanis 37.1 so readers could see the benefit of shopping around to find the company that best suits their needs and price point. Photo courtesy of Beneteau.

What Kind of Insurance Do I Need for My Cruising Sailboat?

There are plenty of exciting things to buy in the world of sailing. Nabbing all the gear, gadgets, upgrades and essential marine accoutrement is...

Refurbishing the Inflatable Dinghy

Inflatable tenders have become the family car for many cruisers. They haul groceries, take us to snorkeling spots, shuttle guests, haul out second anchors,...
You don't need to keep a full-size SCUBA tank onboard for underwater emergencies. Mini SCUBA tanks like this Spare Air don't take up much storage space, and offer sailors the ability to dive on an anchor or work on the prop longer than you'd be able to with snorkel alone.

Compact Scuba Kits for Sailors

In general, many cruisers prefer the freedom of snorkeling to scuba diving, yet there are situations when extending the time you can spend underwater...

Safety: Lights and Shapes that Signal Status and Intentions

We have the minimum required lights, including running lights for sailing and motoring, and an anchor light. We might even have an electronic distress...
Patricia Dallas and David Sapiane are the experienced and caring voices behind Gulf Harbour Radio (ZMH286). They work from their home near Auckland, New Zealand supporting sailors who are crossing the Pacific.

A Radio Lifeline for Cruisers

Speaking with Patricia Dallas and David Sapiane of Gulf Harbour Radio is a little like speaking to a great-aunt and uncle. Like someone who’s...

An Argument for Plain Nautical Language

I never like writing filled with subtle allegory, puzzles, and hidden meaning. But in the hands of a master, creative use of language is...
Propane tank valve and pressure gauge. Since a propane leak can be catastrophic, make sure to schedule in a propane tank and fitting check into your maintenance calendar. (Photo/ Marc Robic)

Propane Leak: How to Detect, Locate and Fix

There isn’t much that scares or worries me when it comes to all things about boats. Except two: large amounts of water coming in...

Lagoon’s WILD NEW 43 Footer is Replacing the 42!

Are you interested in chartering a catamaran sailboat? This is Lagoons new entry level cat. The 43, and while you can still buy a...

Latest Sailboat Review

Hunter 33 (Hunter E33) Used Boat Review

The Hunter 33 had the odds stacked against it from the get-go. The 33-foot family cruiser debuted in the fall of 2011, when the...