If you’re still looking for an over-the-top charter this summer, there’s still time to head for St. Tropez, surely one of the most glamorous destinations in the world. Yachts are still available, and more slots will open up as the fall season begins. If you need more reasons to charter in St. Tropez, look here: http://www.boatbookings.com/blog/2016/08/04/st-tropez-in-a-nutshell/
Here’s a great video combining two world-class brands: Hinckley Yachts and Mystic Seaport. The Seaport itself is a wonderful cruising destination, whether for a weekend or longer. (I spent one of our best weekends ever tied up to the sea wall there with my family many years ago on my Grand Banks.) And a gathering of Hinckleys is a cause for celebration, no matter where they are. Take a look. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nABkqdr7QXA&sns=em
Here are some fun facts about the Coast Guard. I’ve worked with some of these men and women over the years and they do a terrific job; the real point is that they’re there when you need them most. Do you really want to try to be a rescue swimmer, or drive a rollover boat in breaking surf, or fly a helicopter during a storm at night to try to rescue someone who’s hurt miles offshore? These people all have great training for a very serious job. https://www.uso.org/stories/1708-26-things-you-should-know-about-the-coast-guard-for-its-226th-birthday
If you haven’t been to Portland, Maine, lately, go. It’s not only a great cruising destination on Casco Bay, but it’s also a great city in its own right, with a lively foodie and arts scene. Here’s a terrific story in The New York Times that gives a good idea of things to do and places to stay. I may see you there; Portland has been one of my favorite spots, on land or on the water, for many years. (I’m sorry that other people have discovered Becky’s Diner, although you can still get a seat without waiting if you…
Not that you should need them, but if you’re looking for more reasons to charter a bareboat powerboat in the Abacos, here goes. And these are in addition to the reasons that I personally love cruising there – some of the most beautiful water in the world, great white beaches, terrific marinas and resorts, and the chance to get away from it all. And they’re nearby. http://www.moorings.com/blog/five-experiences-you-can-only-have-bahamas
Too hot this summer? Probably. From boat misters to fans, air conditioners and even big hats, here are nine ways to stay cool on board until the weather changes. http://blog.boattrader.com/2016/07/nine-ways-beat-summer-heat-boat.html
Here’s a fun DIY video from the factory tech at Ranger Tugs about changing an impeller on a Volvo D-3, 200-hp diesel engine on a new Ranger Tugs 27. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OpQOvkSFZYw
Here’s a great video from James and Jennifer Hamilton on their Nordhavn 52 Dirona that’s almost a tutorial about systems management for long-range cruising and living aboard – everything from monitoring all the electrical systems on board to creating extra pantry space. Definitely worth a look: http://www.nordhavn.com/interactive/videos/dirona/http://<iframe width=”560″ height=”315″ src=”https://www.youtube.com/embed/-hC490NTIJM” frameborder=”0″ allowfullscreen>
Migration, a Nordhavn 68, is now cruising at 80 degrees north, just 630 nm from the North Pole, in a land of glaciers, floating ice and polar bears. For more about the ultimate high latitude cruise: http://www.nordhavn.com/interactive/nordhavn_live/migration.php
Do you worry about a dead battery? Who doesn’t. But here’s an answer: The very cool Weego Jump Starter 44, a new and improved portable battery charger that’s safe, reliable, user-friendly and comes with a sense of humor. The Weego has enough power to start gas engines up to 6.4 liters and diesel engines up to 3.2 liters. It also provides 12-volt power for accessories (portable marine electronics, compressors, whatever) through a dedicated 12-volt port. It’s safe, with overheat protection, power surge protection, and even protection against salt-water spray. And it can be recycled up to 1,000 times. But it’s…