Boating Knowledge Archives

Sailboat Electrical Panels

October 13, 2023/by Grant Headifen

The sailboat electrical panel, located at the navigation station, normally has two distinct and separately marked sections; one section is devoted to 110-volt or 220-volt AC power and…

Sails

October 13, 2023/by Grant Headifen

Sails are sophisticated objects. It is not only the materials they are made from that are important, but also, the way they are cut and sewn.

Aids To Navigation (ATONS)

October 13, 2023/by Grant Headifen

Aids to Navigation include buoys, lights, lighthouses, and markers, among others…

Returning a sailboat to the Slip

October 13, 2023/by Grant Headifen

Time flies when you are sailing. But sadly, the moment comes when you must return and put your vessel back in its slip.

Sailboat Maneuvering Topics

October 13, 2023/by Grant Headifen

With practice, wind direction and current direction are not too much of a problem. But what can get you into trouble is extremely high winds. Be prepared to change…

Latitude and Longitude

October 12, 2023/by Grant Headifen

The latitude and longitude coordinate system is the key navigational concept for sailing. It is the mariner’s coordinate system.

Vessel Lights and Shapes

October 12, 2023/by Grant Headifen

Nighttime can be a beautiful time to sail. However, night vision is not the same as day vision and so rules have been established to ensure safety.

Sail Trim

October 12, 2023/by Grant Headifen

While setting the sails to general rules of thumb will get you really close to a good sail set,

Before heading out, check forecasted wind conditions to see if you might need to reef at some point during the day. If so, make appropriate reefing preparations in the calm marina and ensure your crew knows the procedure.

Sailing Heave To

October 12, 2023/by Grant Headifen

When you have successfully hove-to (heaved-to), your sailboat will be in a stable situation with the mainsail and headsail still up. Your forward speed will be minimal and…