Journal

• Do a general cleaning of hull, deck, and topsides using a mild detergent. • Ensure drains and sinks are clear. • Apply a coat of wax to protect surfaces. • Clean and polish metal surfaces with a good metal polish. • Clean teak wood and apply oil if needed.

Boating is fun, peaceful and relaxing. Most of the time. It’s a great way to connect with family and friends for everything from short day trips to venturing off farther, even escaping to as far as you can go. It does not matter what type of boating you do, for no matter where you look, there’s always something new to find.

Lithium batteries surround us every day in smartphones and tablets. But lithium batteries are also increasingly being used on boats, be it for water toys, service equipment or boat engines. Their potential is great! However, if used improperly, lithium batteries also pose risks. We show you what to beware of.

Walking by any marina, sailing club or shipyard, a common visual is motor and sailing boats dangling on crossbeams, straps and slings. What at glance isn’t always noted is how the owners fearfully watch on, knowing well the huge risks these practices pose for their assets.

The Galvanic Series and what it means for you. - What you may or may not know is that not all metals are compatible. Metals find their place on a chart called the ‘Galvanic Series’ or ‘Electro-potential Series’ which outlines them from most noble to least noble.

The effectiveness of correctly installed lightning protection systems has long been proven; however, regrettably such devices are not yet standard on boats and yachts. But owners can act. Specialist companies offer several possibilities of averting or at least reducing the devastating effects of a lightning strike; these possibilities are described briefly below.

1. Use the wrong kind of battery. The surest way to quickly kill a marine battery is to use the wrong kind. Marine batteries are manufactured in a variety of types and for different applications, so choosing the right one is vital.

More and more modern technology is finding its way on board boats and yachts. However, maintenance and care are still the key when it comes to boating systems.

Probably the most essential part of a sailing yacht is also the most complex. Depending on how the boat is stored, the rigging will be subjected to stresses all year round.

With more than 40 years of experience, Don Buckley of Admiral Marine Surveying knows exactly what marine surveying is all about. In this edition of our Best Practice Videos, Chris Tilley of Pantaenius Sail and Motor Yacht Insurance joins him to explain why and for whom a survey may be appropriate and how regularly such a report should be carried out.

Get off the trailer and let's go? A trailer boat promises above all flexibility and fun. However, in order for this promise to be fulfilled, owners should keep a few things in mind, because even a seemingly simple boat needs care and certain system checks should be carried out before every trip.

Neglected stern drives can pose a serious risk. One person who knows all about this is Blake Francis of Francis Marine. In his daily work, he often sees what the ravages of time do to stern drives when owners don't pay attention to maintenance.