Having read some time ago how Tim Nash stopped wave slapping on his boat’s hull, I thought readers might be interested to see how I solved the problem.

I went to my local Decathlon store and bought a number of swimming pool noodles (other stores sell them too). The amount needed will depend on your boat size and shape – you can work it out by multiplying the width of your boat at the waterline with Pi divided by two.

Anti wave slap noodles set out and assemble. Credit: Tony Raven

In my case, 3m x 3.14159 = 9.43 divided by 2 = 4.7 so that’s 5m in round figures. I cut the noodles into 310mm lengths, then drilled a hole through the centre lengthwise.

Next, I threaded an old topping lift rope through the individual pieces. I placed two plastic-ended bungees onto each end of the cord, made two loops, and cable tied in place one at each end of the folded noodles to keep it all neat. You just need to pull them all together so that there are no gaps. I use a releasable cable tie to keep it tight.

Put it over the stern and clip on the cords – the further forward you can clip these on the better so as not to lift the forward end anti-slap noodles out of the water.

It all fits neatly into a shopping bag for stowage. Credit: Tony Raven

Does it work? Yes… it doesn’t cut out 100% of wave slap noise, but manages about 95%. So, for a few swimming noodles, a length of old rope, and two bungee cords, not a bad result at all.

The noodles cost £16, bungee cords £5, and the rope if you bought it new about £5 – so a total cost of around £26.

DIY automated fog horn for £30

Nick Tyler takes the guesswork out of broadcasting fog signals

I installed a yacht air conditioning system in just a few hours

Wanting to upgrade the comfort of my 2004 Bavaria 38 with a yacht air conditioning system, I found the procedure…

Quick tips to improve your boat’s performance

Expert delivery skipper Ben Lowings offers his top tips to help improve boat performance and handling. Efficient helming Sailing starts…

How to revamp your boat’s fuel system

It’s always a good idea to take a closer look at your boat’s fuel system. After we bought Noontide, our…

What to read more practical articles like How to prevent wave slap on the hull?

A subscription to Practical Boat Owner magazine costs around 40% less than the cover price.

Print and digital editions are available through Magazines Direct – where you can also find the latest deals.

PBO is packed with information to help you get the most from boat ownership – whether sail or power.

• • • • Take your DIY skills to the next level with trusted advice on boat maintenance and repairs
      • Impartial, in-depth gear reviews
      • Practical cruising tips for making the most of your time afloat

Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and X