Fire, one of the worst nightmares on board
Fire on board is no doubt the worst event possible that could even cause a boat to sink. Therefore, precautions include common-sense measures and obligations required by the law in force in Italy, such as having at least one fire extinguisher on board watercrafts, even those sailing within one mile from the coast.
SAIL CARE chapter 2
Each sail has been designed to withstand wind stress, stress induced upon mast and equipment, sea waves and – above all –a specific wind range. Knowing the wind range is essential for sail proper use and stowage.
C.I.R.M. The guardian angels of seafarers
C.I.R.M. stands for Centro Internazionale Radio Medico (International Radio Medical Centre). It was established back in 1935 and is considered one of the pioneers of telemedicine. It provides radio medical advice 365 days a year, 24 hours a day to ships on any nationality navigating on the four corners of the world regardless of boundaries or which flag they fly.
CAST OFF THE MOORINGS AND LEAVE
Who has ever thought, at least once in a lifetime, of leaving everything to travel the world? Many have, I guess, and among them, some were able to put it into practice.
The compass: definitely an evergreen!
The compass has been for centuries, and still is nowadays, the safest and most reliable instrument you may have on board. This is why it is useful not to lose the habit to have a look at it every now and then instead of keeping on staring the plotter multicolour screen.
Welcome a warm winter at sea
Let us therefore look at what are the best heating options for dinette and cabins and the most popular heating systems for a comfortable boat even in winter unless you prefer shivering or risk a bronchitis cuddled up in your sleeping bag!
Sail care: chapter two
Still on the topic of sail care. Not a case I used the word “care” instead of “maintenance”: what I tried to do in the first chapter and will do here again, is trying to widening the view speaking a little more broadly on how…
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…
Joys and sorrows of the furler
The furler is no doubt one of the very first pieces of equipment able to give comfort and satisfaction onboard as well as hysteria and trouble in a matter of seconds. Over the last few decades the foresail, be it genoa or jib, has undergone…
Sailboat building, lifecycle and disposal
Gentlemen, the time has come at last! I have gone to sea! Well, maybe “gone to sea” is a little too much, as I just sailed a friend of mine’s boat -a Lombard still in lockdown- moored at the port of Genoa from dock to…
Stainless Steel maintenance
Stainless steel has long embellished the boat environment with bright chromed accents 1 • Why is cleaning crucial? Contrary to common understanding, stainless steel is neither a stainless material nor impervious to corrosion. For this reason there are over 200 stainless steel grades featuring…
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…
