Problems related to ‘diesel bug’ in yachts are becoming increasingly common. This is almost certainly due to the higher percentage of biodiesel in the fuel we now buy – good…
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Dufour 44 review: Roomy and competitively-priced cruiser
There are many questions to ask when assessing a boat, whether as a journalist or a potential purchaser, but perhaps the most important question is how well it does what…
RNLI at 200: ‘We do things without prejudice. Our mission is to save lives and save everyone’
During the early evening of Sunday 10 October 1822, the revenue cutter Vigilant weighed anchor to evade a heavy sea being driven into Douglas Bay on the Isle of Man.…
How a seawater pump works
The water and oil seals on a water pump shaft will eventually wear with time, leading to pump-shaft corrosion or loss of engine oil. A daily check of the water…
X-Yachts XC38 used boat review: Great value fast cruiser
A stalwart of Exmouth’s Exe Sailing Club, Rick Newcombe has now owned three separate yachts, all of which have borne the name eXehibitionist. The first was a Beneteau First 31.7.…
In search of the famed ship Beagle, which carried Charles Darwin to his discoveries
For several years I kept my Contessa 32, Minstrel Boy, at Paglesham on the River Roach in Essex and was a member of the Roach Cruising Association (RCA), one of…
How a cutless bearing works
Most boats have a bearing at the outboard end of the propeller shaft that supports the propshaft. Generally this ‘cutless’ bearing will be made of rubber which will, over time,…
What it’s really like working as a Yacht Charter host
Fair weather sailors will undoubtedly be familiar with the flotilla. From family-friendly holidays to booze cruises, many readers will know the feeling of arriving at a fleet garnished with flags…
Crossing the Atlantic as a couple: Why six-hour watches are my pattern of choice
When Rich and I set off from Dartmouth in 2017 to do some long- distance sailing on our Cabo Rico 38 Tequila we hadn’t intended to sail around the world.…
‘Sailing your own boat is the last available way to feel that old-fashioned traveller buzz’ – Libby Purves
During a chilly autumn week we had to do a 36-hour round trip to Calais – we were foot passengers on one of the few ferries that still tolerate such…