Servicing of outboards
Outboards can be divided into two wide families: portable outboards, whose power ranges between 2.5 and 15 hp, and those affixed to the vessel. These latter have higher power and weight and are usually linked to electronic controls. Portable outboards are simpler and are used…
The atlantic crossing by ARC
Ocean sailing is the dream of many yachtspeople. But to successfully perform this adventure it is highly necessary to be prepared, especially those who are setting about to cross the Pillars of Hercules for the first time. The annual Atlantic Rally for Cruisers ARC or…
Hull polishing and care of teak
Boat fiberglass hull gealcoat finishing provides long-lasting and waterproof protection and improves resistance to salt corrosion and UV rays. However, over time, it tends to lose its brightness and to become matt. This is why hull polishing is recommended every 3-4 years to remove stains…
Anchoring manoeuvres
Any boat, of all kinds and dimensions, is provided with a range of anchoring, mooring and capstan equipment. Quantity and complexity of the equipment depend on the boat length and the effort to resist. The external environment i.e. waves, currents and winds affects the anchored…
Rigging and mast cleaning and lubrication
Shrouds and mast are considered among the most reliable components of a sailboat. Not many other items convey the same feeling of being reliable. And maybe this is why their maintenance is often overlooked. However, service them regularly is essential to be sure that their…
Engine maintenance: cleaning and servicing
To keep your boat engine in good working order, it is good practice to perform all servicing activities. Regular engine servicing prevents unforeseen events and failures, also serious, that could put the season at risk or compromise safety during navigation. Engine servicing consists of two…
Improve safety on board
Many people ask me how to improve their safety and their boat safety equipment. Given that we all have our own navigation style, most of the boats I visit aren’t compliant with their national marine standards for what concerns safety equipment: the liferaft is stuck…
Suggestions on anchorage in bay
A boat anchorage requires careful analysis of two crucial variables: the anchor and the most suitable place for mooring. The choice of the anchor depends on several aspects such as: Shape of the roller and space available on deck; Type of vessel; Navigation programme; Reliability…
Guide: onboard batteries
Batteries are the heart of the electrical system: they start the engine and power all the boat electrical devices (lights, electric instruments, radio, fridge, etc.). These two fields of application are markedly different: engine starting needs very high currents (up to 700-900 Ampere) for a…
Test Europump 3000 – 24V
To improve the removal of water from the sail store I have decided to replace the existing pump with a higher flow rate one and the choice fell on the submersible pump Europump 3000 Osculati. The pump is delivered in a white cardboard box, instructions…
Guide: lifejackets
A diligent sailor always wears a lifejacket. Very often, however, due to summer heat or as sailors usually consider themselves experts, this important equipment lies forgotten in the locker. In countries which benefit from a widespread nautical culture such as France and Great Britain the…
Checking a used boat: accessories
When checking a used boat, keep your notebook at hand to note what easily leaps out and make your list which will be very useful if, after careful negotiation and evaluation, the purchase agreement is successful. Let’s start our virtual visit and imagine the boat…
