How to paint your boatPaint strippers have vastly improved over the last few years, and can quickly and effectively remove paint and varnish without any of the environmental and safety issues linked with older traditional methods. However, even the most powerful paint strippers can be slow or inappropriate. In these cases, sanding or blast cleaning may be the only option.
How to launch a boatLaunching 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.
Sailing and the windTo be able to sail, you must understand the wind. Sounds simple? But by knowing from where, and how strong the wind is blowing, you can react to the conditions around you when you're on the water.
Anchoring TipsBoats are built for movement and will always resist being tethered to one spot. Keeping them in one place is a real skill. The right anchor must be chosen and maintained with care, and techniques must be learned and refined.
Top sailing tipsHere?s a quick and handy guide to help you brush up your sailing skills. Sea sickness - If you?re feeling a little under the weather don?t struggle up into to the top bunk. The best way to help you feel better is to stay low! The motion is less evident there. Try to stay horizontal, and if there are no sea berths onboard, throw some cushions on the floor and lie there. You?ll feel better in no time.
Bayliner boatsEstablished in 1955, Bayliner are widely recognised as a leader in recreational boating. Part of the Brunswick Corporation and a member of the Brunswick Boat Group, Bayliner has been a boating leader for more than 45 years.
Servicing your boats fuel systemRegular engine servicing is essential for all boat owners, and winter is the ideal time to prepare your boat for summer 2009. You should check regularly throughout the season for collected water. It will be clearly visible and will require occasional draining.
Boat holidayClub holidays are one of the best vacations you'll ever experience. The flexibility offers a fantastic experience for everyone, young or old, families and singles.
Small outboard enginesSince 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.
Environmentally Friendly boatingMore fuel efficient and environmentally friendly outboards are coming on to the market all the time. Honda has taken a very successful engine, the BF50, and put it through an environmental make-over. They wanted a lighter unit, better mid-range efficiency and a throttle second to none when opened at the top end.
Sailing tips - fit a wing engineWhen 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 access to main engine is not compromised and there is access to the extra engine.
Beginners tips for gibing a dinghyGybing means changing tacks when the wind is blowing from behind the boat. This can be a difficult manoeuvre in stronger winds, since the wind is blowing directly onto the mainsail throughout the gybe.
Boat SafetyBring able to clearly spot a man overboard, especially in dark conditions and rough weather, is essential. A horseshoe lifebelt is one of the most important pieces of safety equipment for any boat owner. Having a buoyancy device at hand for anyone in an overboard situation should be your top priority.
Beneteau Sailing BoatsThe Beneteau company formed over 100 years ago on the quays of Croix-de-Vie, Vendee. For 120 years, innovation as been at the heart of Beneteau's craftmanship. And it is ground-breaking force of Benjamin Beneteau which drives the 2,500 employees. To this day, over 42,000 Beneteau yachts have been created.
Boat Crime PreventionWith the cost of marine theft reaching 1 million pounds a year in Hampshire alone, boats have become a lucrative target for thieves. Outboard engines and powerboats with trailers are the most commonly stolen, and account for 60% of boat thefts.
What is Bio DieselIf your diesel engine has an indirect fuel system, like most yachts and motorboats, you could be running it on pure vegetable oil - also known as biodiesel.
Choosing a Power Boat HullHull types can have a variety of sub-types, closer to each end of the scale. When choosing your hull always consider your intended usage and your budget.
Sailing and yachting clubsA Yacht Club, or Sailing Club, is a sports club exclusively related to sailing and yachting. Traditionally, a Yacht Club is focused on membership of yacht owners, while a Sailing Club would be membership for smaller boat owners - such as dinghies. Some clubs also include owners of powerboats.
Rest, relaxation and luxaryHolidays are all about rest, relaxation, and luxury. And when it comes to celebrities, you can count on them to go overboard by spending time - and money, in exotic locations, onboard some of the world's most luxurious yachts.
Gateway to the WorldSouthampton has always been proud of its links with the sea. It boasts a world class port with over 280 cruise ship movements a year, and is one of the country's leading commercial dockyards.
UK MarinasIf you are thinking of buying a boat, you'll need somewhere to moor it and to keep it maintained.
Southampton Boat ShowThe PSP Southampton Boat Show offers fun for all the family with boats, watersports, Europe's largest show marina and plenty of shopping. The event highlights everything new in boating and attracts visitors with demonstrations and fun activities.
What is a Motorboat?With so many different types of boats available, we bring you this beginner's guide to Motorboats. We hope it will help you make the right choice when buying a boat.
Safety on the waterSailing is a wonderful hobby, but as with any sport it can be dangerous. From novices to the most experienced sailors, it's vital that you're safe on the water. With 54% of lifeboat services carried out for pleasure craft, you cannot afford to take risks on the water. We've put together some basic rules, ideal if you are new to sailing:
Green YachtingNothing beats the fun and excitement of sailing as a hobby - but have you considered the impact of sailing on the environment?
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