PBO reader John Anderson writes: “I have the mast out of my 30 year old Malo to solve an in-mast furling problem, but this has revealed that the electrical cabling…
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Is expanding foam suitable for plugging moisture traps? Ask the experts
Allen Brunton asks: “Our 1983 Sigma 41 has some spaces which trap water and which would be very difficult to drill limber holes into. They’re awkwardly shaped, often irregular and…
What safety kit do you need for watersports?
Having the right safety kit for watersports is essential. I kayak every day and I also have a small motorboat which I use for coastal sailing. Often I sail alone,…
International Toplac boat paint review: 5-year test results show how it lasts
Almost exactly five years ago my Golden Hind 31 Keppel’s tired and exhausted blue sheerstrakes were given a full four-coat paint system. Up to then years of exposure in the…
Are pyrotechnics still the best boat flares? Modern alternatives explained
Do we still need pyrotechnic flares? Recommendations and laws for distress signalling in many countries are behind the times. VHF radio – some with the red distress button – mobile…
Is cold water swimming dangerous? Stay safe with these top tips
Cold water swimming has become extremely popular, and with the right preparation and cold water swimming gear, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t enjoy it. However, wild swimming in cool…
Lomo tow float drybag review – stay safe when cold water swimming
I love to have a tow float when swimming in the sea. Since their introduction in 2012, tow floats have become a popular addition to the wild swimmer’s kit-list, especially…
UK cetaceans: How to spot and identify whales and dolphins from your boat
One spring day when I was a teenager, we were sailing across Poole Bay as we had many times before. All of a sudden, an unremarkable day turned into a…
Perplexed by marine engines? Read the RYA Diesel Engine handbook
The RYA Diesel Engine Handbook is indispensable for understanding marine engines. If you want to maintain your boat engine, and even have a go at fixing it when things go…
Fair winds to pioneering multihull designer James Wharram
Fair winds to free-spirited sailor and pioneering multihull designer James Wharram who passed away on 14 December, at the age of 93
Resealing mushroom vents: How to keep your boat watertight
When Old Duck came into my possession she was not in the best shape. The first thing on my ‘To-Do’ list was to fix all the boat leaks – if…
What’s the best boat paint for topsides? Ask the experts
PBO reader David McDermott of Saundersfoot, Pembrokeshire asks: “Because of the Coronavirus pandemic we didn’t put our Prospect 900 into the harbour this year so instead we aim to spend…
How to convert a classic motorboat to electric power – Ask the experts
Jon Wallsgrove of Sunbury on Thames asks: “Under restoration is my classic 1946 Thames launch that I’d like to convert to electric propulsion. “Merlin III is a 12ft Kay Craft.…
What’s the best boat fuel? Is it worth paying for premium? Ask the experts
PBO reader Roy Gwilliam asks: “I have a Yanmar 3YM20 engine in my Dehler 32, built in 2010. I generally use red diesel with the belief that it does not…
Best boat torch – Luceco rechargable LED inspection torch
Lockers, bilges and engine compartments are gloomy places, but a great deal of time is spent looking inside them. Instead of poking around and straining your eyes, keep an inspection…
Offshore sailing gear: How to prepare a boat for extended cruising
Sea Bear is a Vancouver 28 built in 1987. She was generally in very good condition when I bought her, but I decided she needed some offshore sailing gear additions…
Duracell refit: From Vendée Globe legend to comfortable world cruiser
Let me tell you a story about a young man, a boat builder and a sailor who, after some adventures at sea, heard about a legendary old race boat which…
How to restore teak decking: Varnish or oil? Ask the experts
“Can your paint expert help me identify the coating on my boat’s flybridge deck and stairs? “Is it likely to be just a varnish or something more specific? Can I…
Best sealant kit to keep on board your boat
Sealing screwed-on windows: With screwed in windows the purpose of the sealant is to keep water out, not to glue the windows. Bostik MSR CA is a hybrid silicone/polyurethane. It’s…
The Red waterproof kit bag on test – PLUS what to wear for dinghy sailing
I have a cupboard full of waterproof bags. Some I use for keeping water in (for example, my 40L Musto drybag, which I use for lugging around soggy wetsuits); others…