Sailing Education Archives

Using a Marine Radio

April 10, 2024/by Grant Headifen

Knowledge of use of a VHF is not only mandatory for safety but some governments require a VHF knowledge certification before you can charter a boat in their waters.

The Autopilot on a Charter

April 10, 2024/by Grant Headifen

The autopilot is a great tool for those long hauls and it’s probably better at holding a straight line than most of us.

Air Conditioning on a Sailboat

April 9, 2024/by Grant Headifen

Air conditioning is an enormous energy drain.

Galley Stove on a Charter Boat

April 7, 2024/by Grant Headifen

The vast majority of vessels in charter fleets are equipped with propane-burning galley stoves.

Bring a fishing rod and reel with a 20 lb break strength line. Even if you’re not typically a fisher, few things in life are better than catching a fish for your crew, cooking it, and serving it that evening. It will increase your hero status.

Charter Provisioning

April 6, 2024/by Grant Headifen

Many charter companies can stock and provision your boat before you arrive. This is a good idea for the basics but there is usually little imagination in the food that is supplied.

Communications while Underway on a Charter

April 6, 2024/by Grant Headifen

Contact between vessels, or a boat and a land station, is usually carried out using VHF (Very High Frequency) radios.

The Nautical Chart on a Charter

April 5, 2024/by Grant Headifen

Even though most sailboat charters are within island groups where the next landfall is typically within sight, every boat should be equipped with complete large-scale charts of the area.

Bilge Pumps on a Charter Boat

April 5, 2024/by Grant Headifen

Boats have two types of pumps to empty bilge water; electronic and manually operated.

The Deck – Getting Familiar with a Charter Boat

April 5, 2024/by Grant Headifen

Gaining knowledge about the boat, its systems, and its equipment is a great starting point for any sailing adventure.