Theo Stocker

Having caught the bug for yacht cruising as a teenager on the rivers of the East Coast, Theo has since explored far and wide under sail – north to the Lofoten Islands, south to Morocco, the Gambia and Senegal, east to the Baltic and the Mediterranean and west to the Caribbean.

He sailed the family Hallberg Rassy 31 for a number of years, but is now the proud owner of a Sadler 29, kept on the Lymington river, from where he and his wife Georgie cruise both sides of the English Channel.

After stints in the Royal Navy and in public relations in the City, Theo combined the best of both worlds and began writing for Yachting Monthly as a freelance contributor. He joined the team in 2014 and has been editing the magazine since 2017.

Follow Theo Stocker

What better to dream about in the dreary days of winter than bobbing at anchor in the limpid waters of the Pacific amid Polynesia’s unfeasibly beautiful islands? Credit: Rachel Moore

Dreams & Disasters: Editor’s Letter February 2022

January 10, 2022

Sailors have to be prepared, mentally and materially, for whatever the sea might throw at us. Theo Stocker introduces the February 2022 issue of Yachting Monthly

Electric outboard motor: we test 12 options

December 10, 2021

The electric outboard motor has been around for many years, but they have either been too low powered or their lead acid batteries have made them too heavy to lift…

Sailing Escapism – Editor’s Letter January 2022

December 7, 2021

Take time to slow down and really enjoy your cruising - it is the best gift you can give yourself. Theo Stocker introduces the January 2022 issue of Yachting Monthly

When making a VHF radio call, hold the mic 5cm from your mouth and to one side for a clear transmission

VHF Radio pitfalls and how to avoid them

December 5, 2021

It’s easy to just turn on your VHF radio and hope for the best, but knowing how to get the best out of it can make a big difference, says…

When making a Mayday call or Pan Pan call, always reads off the GPS position from the radio

How to make a VHF radio Mayday call & Pan Pan call

December 4, 2021

When you need help, make sure you and your crew know exactly what to say when making a Mayday or distress call, says Andy Du Port

It is best to do VHF radio checks with another yacht on a pre-arranged working channel. Credit: Andrew Sydenham

How and when to make a VHF radio check – and when not to

December 3, 2021

A VHF radio check will tell you if your radio is working properly or not, but you shouldn't do every time you go out, or even with the Coastguard, says…

Sadler 32 Pixie has taken Graham Snook on some incredible adventures in the last 12 years, including along the west coast of Scotland. Credit: Graham Snook

Memories and plans – Editor’s Letter December 2021

November 11, 2021

It is easy to forget the role our yachts have in our lives, and the memories they help forge. Theo Stocker introduces the December 2021 issue of Yachting Monthly

The full-length hull chine on the Beneteau Oceanis 34.1 increases volume as well as righting moment when heeled.

First look: Beneteau Oceanis 34.1

October 27, 2021

Theo Stocker takes a look at the Beneteau Oceanis 34.1, the new replacement for the Oceanis 34, which is set up for simple sailing

First look: Arcona 415 – first electric production yacht?

October 26, 2021

Electric propulsion is gradually becoming more and more mainstream for sailing yachts, and it makes sense. They’re virtually silent, maintenance free, have zero emissions and are ready at the touch…

First look: Southerly 42 – bluewater beauty

October 25, 2021

There are few high-end bluewater cruising yachts that can boast a draught of just 84cm (3ft). While this increases to 2.7m (8ft 11in) while sailing, the trademark swing keel of…