How often to antifoul a boat is one of our most frequently asked maintenance questions from our customers. In this guide, we’ll explain what antifouling is, why it’s important and how often you should antifoul your boat so that you can keep your vessel in the best condition possible. What is antifouling? Antifouling is the procedure of protecting your boat’s...
Inflatable boats have developed immensely over the years and cuts, leaks and tears are far less common than they used to be. However although the technology has come a long way, some tenders and inflatable dinghies will inevitably need repairing due to general wear and tear, a sharp object piercing through the inflatable structure or going over rocks. If this...
With the Christmas period here again, it’s that time of year where we are looking for gift ideas for those close to us. If you have either a friend or family member who loves yachts or is a keen sailor, it can be tough knowing what to get. Whether it’s for someone who has just bought their own boat, or...
Regular boat maintenance is essential for any type of boat, whether it’s a small sailing vessel or a mammoth transatlantic cruise liner. Regular cleaning, annual services, safety checks and antifouling are all important aspects of boat ownership, and you can make your sailing experience smoother, more efficient and more enjoyable by creating a checklist of maintenance essentials. If you’re wondering...
Marine growth will build up on your boat wherever you sail, so it’s vital to protect your hull correctly. A fouled hull causes all sorts of problems, so you definitely want to avoid this situation. What Is Marine Growth? The hull attracts all kinds of marine life – plankton, moss and algae settle on the hull and stick like glue...
A personal floatation device (PFDs) is essential to keep you safe on the water. There are many different products to choose between, but they broadly fall into two categories: life jackets and buoyancy aids. The Royal Yachting Association recommends you always wear one or the other. Each product works differently and not all are guaranteed to keep you afloat in...
Very High-Frequency radios are an essential tool for anyone planning to go out to sea, no matter how far you intend to travel. Not sure which is the right VHF radio for you? It can certainly be tough to know which one is best for your needs, as they come in a variety of models and prices. Here are some things...
How safe is your boat’s deck? Before you next set sail, it’s worth conducting a risk assessment, paying particular attention to anything that could lead to slips, trips or falls. For example, you might discover wear and tear, loose wires, displaced gratings or wobbly railings. Is your path blocked by equipment or other obstructions? Are there plenty of handholds? Is...
Marine anodes truly are the unsung heroes of successful boat maintenance. These plain metal ingots are usually hidden from view and are unlikely to attract much attention. However, anodes perform a crucial role: protecting boats against galvanic corrosion. In this guide to boat anodes, we’ll explore how they work and how boat owners can use them effectively. Oxidation Poses a...
Spring is in the air (it officially begins on 20 March) and Britain’s boat owners are looking forward to sunny, bright and breezy sailing conditions. Before you head out onto the water, it’s worth doing some spring cleaning and light maintenance. After all, you want your boat to look – and perform – its best. Let’s throw off that boat...