Yachting Monthly - Essential Sailing Tips, Gear Reviews, and Ocean Navigation Guides

Perform a complete pre-delivery inspection before every voyage and log it in your maintenance diary. This practice reduces liability and catches issues before they become costly repairs. Start with hull and rigging, then inspect sails, safety gear, and deck fittings; confirm that zinc sacrificial anodes are in good condition to prevent galvanic corrosion on aluminium fittings. If you spot a loose bolt or a cracked fairlead, fix it now instead of waiting for the delivery trip.

Store checklists in a browser-based system so every crew member and customers can review them on deck, in the cabin, or in transit. Begin each day with a quick visual sweep: inspect cleats, hose clamps, and bilge pumps; verify lifejackets are serviceable and ready. Keep logs that record who performed the check and when to reduce liability and speed maintenance planning.

Gear reviews should differentiate between anchor options, lines, and deck hardware. For aluminium components, salt spray accelerates corrosion; inspect fittings, and consider using zinc anodes to balance galvanic currents. If a connector shows signs of corrosion, replace it with a stainless or coated aluminium alternative. Set maintenance intervals: rinse with fresh water after exposure to spray, dry thoroughly, and apply a protective inhibitor. Track weight loss of sacrificial elements to verify efficacy.

Ocean navigation guides emphasize planning with multiple contingencies. Build routes using electronic charts and paper backups; cross-check weather forecasts, tides, and currents. When forecasts look unfavourable, reroute early and brief the team so deliveries stay on schedule and safety stays high. Use a dedicated browser tool to compare sources and keep updated waypoints.

For customers reading this, schedule maintenance windows during calm conditions and plan spare parts orders with a reliable supplier. Compare aluminium fittings with stainless steel, focusing on galvanic compatibility and overall weight. Choose items with clear warranties and straightforward replacement policies, and track delivery timelines to avoid delays that stall plans. This approach keeps costs predictable and customers satisfied.

Yachting Monthly: Key Sailing Tips, Gear Reviews, and Ocean Navigation Guides; - Returns Policy

Return unused items within 30 days of receipt via the website's returns portal; include proof of purchase and keep all original packaging. Items must be unused and returned in original appearance to qualify for a full refund.

For defective shipments or incorrect items, we cover return postage and issue a replacement after we receive the item and confirm the issue with evidence (photos or video). Refunds are processed to the original method within 5–7 business days after approval.

Gear reviews rely on evidence from field tests, water times, and user feedback. We assess performance, reliability, and build quality, noting how looks and finishes hold up under salt spray. Review notes cover protective coatings, washing practices, and the function of fixings under load. We call out specialized gear when it improves safety or ease on deck. Generally, our tests include a hands-on check of materials, finishes, and the way components form a cohesive setup.

Key sailing tips for safety and efficiency include monitoring currents and tidal times, keeping motions smooth, and maintaining clear communication with crew. Plan around wind shifts, watch spray patterns, and stay aware of hull appearance and skin condition after wet passages. If the prop shaft shows misalignment or wear, inspect fixings and consider a service before the next voyage unless you have evidence of normal wear. This approach helps you receive consistent performance, physically verify parts, and keep handling predictable in all conditions.

Maintenance practices emphasize corrosion protection: the sacrificial anode must be checked regularly, and scale buildup on fittings should be scrubbed during washing. Apply protective spray to vulnerable metal areas and verify the anode is actively protecting the propshaft and connected components. This keeps the skin of hulls healthy and the appearance of gear intact, forming a reliable baseline for your next voyage. Document changes and replacements to maintain a clear record for the crew and decisions on future upgrades.

Navigation guides on our site combine official charts, tide tables, and on-water checks. We connect with trusted sources to receive updates and ensure you have current information. Specialized apps and our website offer route planning, weather overlays, and caution notes for coastal passages. Always verify changes on the ground and cross-check with local authorities before setting a course.

Changes to policy, if any, appear on the website; we notify subscribers via email and update the article pages. Readers should review the returns page on the site when planning a purchase, especially for items called out in gear reviews or navigation gear.

Practical Section Outline for Hands-On Yachting Readers

Implement a 60-minute weekly check: from bilge to deck, perform cleaning, inspect critical systems, and test safety circuits, then log results.

Apply a royal touch to hardware with marine-grade polish on hinges, stanchions, and deck fittings to stop corrosion and keep equipment ready.

Use disinfectant on high-contact areas: handrails, chart table, hatch grips; for sensitive surfaces, use a diluted solution andor rinse with freshwater to prevent residue.

Divide tasks into areas: galley, heads, cabin, navigation station, cockpit, and exterior lockers. Assign a clear function to each section and schedule a stop point to review progress.

Document expectations and reminders: set an email note for upcoming checks; when a task stalls, reassign a time block and return to it with fresh data and enough time.

Processing logs keep it simple: date, initials, area, outcome, and any part or tool replaced; if a component fails, record the issue and steps to prevent stagnate and keep delays away.

Training beat: having new crew follow the outlined steps, use the described tools, and accept the results; encourage safe handling and tidy storage after every session.

Reference sheet: ready-to-use checklists for each area, the exact cleaners and disinfectants, and the location of supplies; include a quick email for parts and marine-grade fittings.

Pre-Sail Safety Quick-Checklists

Run a 5-minute pre-sail safety check focusing on main systems, exits, and motions; confirm all hands know the plan and where to signal trouble.

Electrical: test the battery meter, verify charging, note resistance in the wiring, and check for corrosion on terminals; keep access to the main switch clear and labeled; regularly inspect wiring, fuses, and battery links; watch electrons move cleanly through the circuit.

Fuel and engine: verify fuel level and tank venting; inspect hoses for nicks or cracks and replace aged clamps; run the engine for a minute to confirm smooth idle, proper water flow, and no abnormal noises; keep the propshaft clean of entanglements and ensure guards are in place; when far from shore note fuel price trends at remote places.

Safety gear and lines: check PFDs or lifejackets, harnesses, and jacklines; verify fire extinguishers of different types and service dates; ensure life raft, EPIRB, and first-aid kit are within reach; test VHF/DSC access and practice a quick distress call; collect crew comments and note any items that are needed or down for replacement.

Deck and rig checks: scan for nicks or signs of wear on hull, deck fittings, and stanchions; inspect standing and running rigging for wear; test winches, blocks, and the propshaft guard if present; ensure lines are tidy, chafe protection is in place, and access to the main halyard is clear; consider using silver tape or lime markers for quick fixes when necessary.

Navigation and planning: verify charts and GPS backup, confirm access to wind and tide data, and review route times to each leg; keep a note of weather updates and potential places to shelter; treat the forecast as the subject of the plan and share a mail with crew roles and safety terms.

Post-check actions: log findings in the delivery log, mark items as needed or down, and assign tasks with clear times; keep a piece of paper on the bulkhead as a reminder; review comments from each crew member and update the maintenance terms and next checks.

Interpreting Gear Reviews: What Matters for Your Boat

Choose gear with independent test data and clear battery durability information; avoid reviews that only list features. Look for real-world tests covering discharge cycles, charging behavior, and performance under vibration in salt air. Batteries should show complete cycle data, not incomplete samples.

When a review mentions materials, note if aluminium housings or fittings hold up under salt spray; electrochemical testing reveals how ions in seawater interact with coatings, protecting critical parts. If your boat lives in exposed local harbours or the highlands of rough coast, seek data from vessels in similar conditions or ask for field reports.

Spot fraud by checking for disclosed sponsorship and cross-checking claims with manufacturer data or third-party lab results. A credible product also lists compatible spare parts and a straightforward warranty, so you can back up repairs.

Use a practical inspection checklist: inspect seals, cables, connectors, and mounting hardware; the helm wheel should feel solid and protected from splash. Confirm the product includes factory-tested batteries or a clear charging protocol, and that the installation solution is documented and that spare parts or service options are listed for back-up.

Needs-based selection: reviews should tie claims to real needs aboard your boat; unless you have field data from boats in similar climates, treat lab claims with caution. If a claim relies on a lab condition rather than field use, check user reports from boats in similar climates or from distant routes.

Bottom line: match gear to your boat’s needs, favor items with transparent testing and accessible support, and verify every claim against your own operating conditions before purchasing.

Navigation Planning in Practice: Routes, Tides, and Weather

Plan the route around the local tide windows and a reliable forecast; check tides, currents, and wind for the passage, and share the plan with customers before lifting sails, so you work together toward a safe exit.

Read tide tables for your chosen shore or port, note the peak range, and aim to encounter slack water at key points; in estuaries expect 1–2 m swings, while open coast channels can show 3–5 m; build a schedule that allows a 15–30 minute buffer for wind shifts, and position yourself to arrive at a safe harbor rather than pressing on if conditions tighten.

Consult a 48-hour weather briefing from several sources and cross-check with google maps for synoptic features; monitor fronts, wind shifts, and potential squalls; plan an alternate route to a nearby shore or marina, and mark a fall-back waypoint on the chart. If the forecast worsens, unless you have a solid harbor option, make for a harbor.

Keep hull and fittings in good shape: inspect for scratches and wear, especially along high-traffic areas; ensure antifouling remains intact and check metals for corrosion; monthly wash and brush sessions help keep wear down; for wood hulls or decks, inspect joints and touch up worn areas; this reduces drag and preserves performance away from shore.

Plan logistics: confirm shore access, rope options, and trailer capacity if you transport to the start point; verify the boat is surveyed and the note is on file; keep a copy in the cockpit and on your phone; solid planning reduces risk and helps follow the plan when fatigue hits.

Use tools to build routes: google maps for waypoints, local charts, and monthly marine guides; build a reading of tide times and expected gusts; note hazards such as weed beds or shallow patches, and update the plan as you learn. If you trailer, ensure the boat is secured and away from the vehicle, and check that the hull is free of scratches before launch.

Reading the plan aloud during pre-departure briefing keeps everyone aligned; assign watch duties so one sleeps while the other steers; maintain responsibility for safety and the boat; remind customers to stay clear of the hull when afloat and to follow the plan; after the trip, review the route and update monthly notes to improve the next voyage, and forget nothing on your checklist.

Onboard Gear Upkeep: Maintenance and Quick Repairs

Keep a ready-to-go repair kit and a three-part maintenance log card, and run a 10-minute pre-run check before every voyage, thats why we keep the log card updated.

Apply this practical workflow to keep gear ready and minimize downtime on the water.

1. Pre-run inspection (10 minutes)
   • Battery terminals: wipe away grime, clean with a nylon brush, then apply marine dielectric grease; log any corrosion or loose connections on the card and notify if action is needed.
   • Through-hulls, hoses, and clamps: inspect for cracks, swelling, or leaks; replace damaged parts with fresh parts; ensure no stagnate water in bilges and verify the pump test cycle works.
   • Deck hardware and rigging: test winches, blocks, and shackles; lubricate moving parts with marine grease; remove any residue from sheaves and tracks.
2. Quick fixes at sea
   • Leaking fittings: reseal with marine sealant or replace O-rings; clean residue before tightening; recheck for drips after 15 minutes of operation.
   • Electrical glitches: reseat connectors, tighten fasteners, and verify power feeds; if a fuse or breaker trips repeatedly, log the event in the informationwe and document any issue that needs attention.
   • Stuck or sluggish hardware: disassemble gently, clean, and relubricate; test after reassembly and note any difference in performance.
3. Cleaning and corrosion control
   • Wipe grime from deck fittings, rail hardware, and metallic fixtures; remove any grime and apply a light coating of appropriate lubricant to prevent further residue buildup.
   • Check for electrochemical corrosion on metallic fittings, especially near saltwater exposure; replace affected parts and treat adjacent surfaces with corrosion inhibitor.
4. Documentation, analytics, and processing
   • Record findings in the informationwe log; compare analytics against prior checks to spot trends and forecast needs.
   • Use a simple difference check: note when a component lasts longer after cleaning vs before; this helps plan maintenance intervals and spare parts orders.
   • Use google to verify part numbers and compatibility when ordering replacements; keep a spare parts list to reduce downtime during delivery times.
5. Spare parts, storage, and workflows
   • Maintain a kit of high-use items: O-rings, seals, clamps, hose segments, and a small sealant tube; check expiry dates and rotate stock to prevent residue buildup.
   • Keep a compact parts card or label on each item; record lot numbers, expiry, and place of purchase to simplify troubleshooting and recalls.
   • Notify the crew or skipper about any issue that could affect safety or performance; coordinate parts delivery to the next port or place of call.

Returns Policy: Eligibility, Deadlines, and How to Initiate

Return eligible items within 30 days for a full refund. Stop using any item you suspect is damaged and start the return process immediately. They should be in the same condition as when made, with all original packaging and accessories.

Eligibility criteria protect you and the vendor. They require the item to be unused, in original packaging with all accessories and tags, and complete in its purchased condition. Incomplete components or wear beyond packaging damage will not be accepted. The item must pass inspection, and we will verify details to prevent fraud. For gear used on saltwater voyages, ensure metals show no corrosion and any professionalfood components remain intact.

1. Eligibility

   • Item condition: unused, unwashed, with tags and original packaging; manuals and accessories must be included.
   • Completeness: no incomplete parts; missing pieces disqualify the return.
   • Inspection and fraud prevention: all returns inspected; informationwe may be required to verify purchase; fraud checks apply to protect both sides.
   • Safety and materials: batteries must be shipped per policy; damaged or corroded metals affect eligibility.
   • Marine-use notes: gear used at sea should be clean and dry; salt exposure is a reason for closer review; if it has salt residue, it may affect acceptance. If the item includes salts or salt-related accessories, mention it in the return notes.
   • Return of damaged items: items arriving damaged will be processed per policy; we may request photos or return packaging to assess.
   • Additional note: items made for sleeping aboard (sleeps) should show no signs of moisture or mold; this helps ensure a safe and fair review.

2. Deadlines

   • Refund window: 30 days from delivery for a full refund; after this window, exchanges or store credits are considered at our discretion.
   • Processing time: once we receive and inspect the item, we restore the funds to the original payment method within 5-7 business days.
   • Condition on arrival: damaged or unsecured packaging may extend review or result in partial refunds; ensure packaging is secure for transit and includes all components.
   • Drop-offs: we accept returns at authorized locations; some options may involve a trailer pickup at marina partner sites.

3. How to Initiate

   • Step 1: Stop and evaluate. If the item is damaged, photograph it and keep the original packaging; this helps speed up the review.
   • Step 2: Start the request via the online returns portal or by contacting customer service. Provide order number, item SKU, reason, and informationwe to verify ownership. We recommend including clear photos, especially for items with batteries.
   • Step 3: Prepare the package. Include all parts, use secure packaging to avoid unsecured items, and keep the interior dry; if the item is designed for sleeps aboard, ensure it is clean and dry before packing; remove or separate batteries if required by policy and follow shipping rules.
   • Step 4: Ship or drop off. Use the prepaid label if provided or follow the designated drop-off instructions; trailer-friendly locations at marina partners are available where applicable; obtain a tracking number to monitor shipment times.
   • Step 5: Processing and refund. We inspect within 3-7 business days of receipt; if approved, we restore the payment to your original method within 5-7 business days. If a replacement is offered, we communicate whether it would arrive as a separate shipment or as part of the same return cycle.

Changes to this policy take effect upon posting. We aim to improve the experience by keeping the process the simplest and most transparent, and by accepting legitimate returns they would be processed quickly. If you have any questions, we’re here to help.