A year or so ago I was helping a friend, Monty Halls, bring his boat Sobek, around from Plymouth to Dartmouth. As we were leaving Plymouth breakwater, the engine died.…
Maintenance
Upcycling a boat: ‘I’m not saying it’s for everyone, but I do feel that recycling a boat makes a great deal of sense’
When it came to searching for a smaller yacht for upcycling, I was quite specific. I wanted a boat I could keep on my Chichester Harbour mooring while my other…
Keeping your boat afloat: how to find and fix hull moisture
No matter how hard you try, a completely dry boat without hull moisture is a rarity. The older a boat gets the more likely seals will start shrinking, sealant around…
How it works: Marine gearboxes and clutches
The gearbox on a marine diesel engine has three purposes: to reduce the maximum speed at which the propeller rotates; to enable both forward and astern rotation of the propeller;…
Marine electrics: How to solve any problem onboard
After engine breakdowns, electrical failure is the second most common reason for a yacht becoming stranded. Duncan Kent explains how to troubleshoot problems with your marine electrics
The tools and spares you shouldn’t sail without
Give a thought to your inventory this winter to keep you cruising next season, says Rachael Sprot
Through hull fittings: bronze or plastic?
When it comes to through hull fittings do you opt for bronze or plastic? Surveyor Ben Sutcliffe-Davies shares his thoughts
Burst coolant hose: ‘I had spares for everything except this’
Edward Vivian experiences a burst coolant hose while sailing from Guernsey to Plymouth in deteriorating conditions
Boat checklist: 27 checks for the start of the season
Prepare properly for getting back afloat, and you and your boat will be ready for a trouble-free season, says Rubicon 3 Adventure’s John Manners
Sailboat rigging: What is the best way to tune it?
Is it best to tune your sailboat rigging on the hard or back on the water? Marine surveyor Ben Sutcliffe-Davies answers readers' questions