As I’ve noted in this space before, a lot of folks bought cruising boats during the pandemic and many are planning to head off in the future, maybe this year, for an extended cruise. Judging from the chatter on social media in venues like the Facebook Yacht Club, or the Sailing and Cruising or Bluewater Sailing and Cruising FB groups, there are quite a few folks who are new to boat ownership and to the skills that sailing, passagemaking and cruising demand. With that thought in mind, here are my top 10 upgrades that will make living aboard and life on the water safer and happier for all.
1. A robust anchoring set up with a windlass, multiple rodes and at least three types of anchors. 2. Sails in good condition that can be deeply reefed, plus downwind sails. 3. Adequate weather protection in the cockpit, ie. Dodger, bimini, insert etc. 4. Appropriate autopilot with spare parts. If possible, a back-up autopilot or windvane for peace of mind. 5. A quality dinghy. A RIB with an outboard large enough to make the dinghy plane is the most popular choice. 6. Self-sufficient energy system. Large battery bank, upgraded alternator, smart charger, solar panels, wind generator and LED lightbulbs. 7. Safety gear and preparation. EPIRB, personal locator beacons, PFDs and harnesses, jacklines, life raft, ditch kit. 8. High seas communication. VHF radios, long range comms for voice and or email like an SSB or Ham radio, satellite comms via a satphone, IridiumGo, InReach or Spot. 9. Weather forecasting onboard. Learn weather fundamentals. Subscribe to a weather service like PredictWind, Ocens, or SailMail. Consult professionals for passage routing. 10. Comforts of home. Watermaker, fitted sheets, fans, good refer and freezer, cockpit cushions, curtains, quality foul weather gear, high output inverter, a way to watch movies.
I am sure I have omitted items that many think are indispensable and included things that many can happily live without. What do you think? If you’d like to share your thoughts on essential or nonessential gear and equipment, email me at george@bwsailing.com.
