Much has recently been made in the papers about 3D printing, which can manufacture replacement bones, blood vessels, buildings and weapons, while NASA are even considering using it to construct…
Practical
Check your boat’s gas system
Considering gas is the most dangerous substance likely to be on board, you’d be surprised how far down the list most people place the safety of their gas system. Many…
Build a boat from a kit
There’s a great way to own a new boat on a budget – build it yourself. We followed five builders and their projects
9 tips for using sealant
Premium bonding: some techniques for getting the most out of sealant without ending up covered in the sticky stuff!
Gelcoat repair colour matching – the quick way
A basic colour match may not be perfect – but in most cases it’ll do the job and is much easier to use than professional repair products
Gelcoat repairs: How to make an invisible repair
Everything you need to know to make an invisible gelcoat repair, from preparation and filling to topcoat and polishing
Refit a racer for cruising
Eighteen months after winning the 2009 OSTAR in his Sigma 33C, Elmarleen, Will Sayer talks to Ben Meakins about his next challenge...
65 ways to cut the cost of your boating
With the turbulent forecasts for the UK and global economy, many of us have had to ask ourselves if we can really justify the outlay required to own a boat…
Wreck to Transat racer
Is racing across the Atlantic in a boat bought with a student loan really feasible? Here's the story of PBO reader Will Sayer's preparations to compete in the OSTAR in…
What’s that boat?
PBO readers call for help to identify their newly-bought project boats...
How to swing a compass
Before GPS sets became so ubiquitous, swinging a compass was a yearly ritual for most boat owners, and the compass was the most important navigational tool onboard. After all, even…
How to calibrate your instruments
Two ways to calibrate your speed instruments ‘Set to GPS’ feature The simplest way to calibrate your speed instruments these days is to use the GPS speed over ground (SOG)…
Service your lifejacket
It’s recommended that you take your lifejackets for a full service every year, but for many boat owners this job is near the bottom of the ‘to-do’ list and often…
How to service your marine diesel engine
The unique challenges of the marine environment mean regular engine servicing is essential for any boat owner. Winter is the ideal time to do this, making next spring’s launch much…
Antifouling: Everything you need to know
Here’s PBO’s guide to preparing for, choosing and using antifouling paints
How to reproof your leaky oilskins – 7 reproofers tested
PBO tests reproofing products
How to tune your rig
Read David Harding's in-depth guide to rig tuning
Make your own cockpit ‘booster’ seat
Looking for a more comfortable sailing experience, James Brooking builds 'booster' seats for his cockpit
Make your own transom shower fitting covers
Put spice pot lids to a new use with this budget tip to make transom shower fitting covers
PBO Sail Clinic: free hands-on expert advice for readers
PBO Technical Editor David Harding offers ideas to help a Kelt 5.50 that won't beat upwind