Boat Maintenance

A guide to boat covers

A guide to boat covers Your boat is not a cheap investment, so you want to protect it and get as many boating years as possible from it.  Boat covers are an essential, and economical, buy that all boaters should consider. Protecting your boat with a cover, whether you are mooring, storing or dry-docking, will extend the life of your boat. Boat covers are easy to use and designed to protect your boat from the elements. If you tow your boat, the sun and road spray can add to the Full story ...

Winter care for your boat

Winter care for your boat If you’re not planning on sailing over the winter months, take some time to put your boat to bed until the warmer weather returns. You can't expect to pack your boat away for months of harsh weather without problems. By spending an hour bedding it down properly, you can be sure that next it will be ready to go, without repairing the damage the winter has caused. If you don’t winterise your boat properly, you’ll soon discover when spring arr Full story ...

Types of boat

Wooden Boats For thousands of years there was nothing but wooden boats – no other choice.  Then in the 1960s they almost became an endangered species.  What nearly killed off the wooden boat, in favour of the fibreglass boat, was not the material or the boats it produced, but the expense of building and maintenance.  Building wooden boats is labour intensive and takes a great deal of time and skill.  As a boat owner, it also takes a real commitment of time and effo Full story ...

How to paint your boat

Let’s start with the basics Painting on top of badly prepared surfaces is a waste of time and money Always use the right material for the job, using cheap alternatives will cost more in the long term Always apply the number of coats specified by the manufacturer Only use products specified for underwater use on yacht bottoms Always read and follow the manufacturers instructions, they are there for a reason! Paint removal Paint strippers Full story ...

Sailing Tips: Launching a dinghy 

Launching your boat without damaging its hull is more difficult that you might think.  More damage is caused to the hull during its launch than when it’s afloat.  By following some simple guidelines you can avoid scratches and scrapes which affect the overall look of your boat and will slow its performance.  It could even lead to more serious hull damage. Preparation Before setting out to launch your boat, there are some vital preparation points to remember. Launchi Full story ...

Small outboard engines

Since 2006, the traditional, simple, lightweight two-stroke petrol outboard has been outlawed by European Union for environmental reasons – they no longer meet emission regulations.  This is due to fuel residue, including a small amount of oil, being jettisoned along with the exhaust gases.  So, if you’re looking to replace your two-stroke, you should choose from a new, quieter, cleaner, but heavier, four-stroke engine. What to look for Twist-grip tiller throttle Full story ...

Servicing your fuel system

Regular engine servicing is essential for all boat owners, and winter is the ideal time to prepare your boat for summer 2009. Checking and replacing the primary filter Clean filters are essential to keep water and particles out of your boats engine.  Most marine engines have two filters, the primary filter in the fuel lines between the tank and the engine, and the secondary filter between the fuel lift pump and the injection pump. You should check regularly throughout the s Full story ...

Fitting a wing engine

A wing engine is used for emergency propulsion and also efficient engine running at low speeds. One possible issue with twin engine installation in a motor cruiser, is access for servicing.  Depending on how deep the V bottomed hull is, it can be difficult to get to the outboard sides of the engines. When an engine needs upgrading, rather than rebuilding the existing engine, and only if there is space, it is possible to build a wing engine.  This will ensure that a Full story ...

Antifoul for your boat

One of the most important sailing decisions you’ll make this year is your choice of antifouling.  Even the most moderate fouling can lose you knots. This is why racing sailors can often be seen scrubbing their hulls or dry-sailing to ensure their hull is smooth and clean.  But most prefer a lower maintenance method to last the season. Antifoul Coastal waters contain an array of animal and vegetable organisms, many of which are looking for somewhere to settle and breed. Full story ...

Keeping Your Boat Ship Shape!

If you have a new or used boat for sale, remember - first impressions count. We've put together a handy guide to help you keep your boat in ship shape and Bristol fashion! What You'll Need: Soft Rags Wax Soap Sponge Squeegee Compound (for removing deep scratches) Scrub Brush Boat pole and scrub brush attachment Hose with a water source Wash Your Boat Rinsing your boat regularly with freshwater, will reduce the Full story ...