Common Problems & Worries

Living on a boat isn't all palm trees and umbrella drinks.

Worried about fire, sinking, hurricanes . . . or being overrun by bugs?

Wondering what in the world you've gotten yourself into? It happens to us all. Find practical help and words of encouragement here!

Fire Aboard

Hurricane Prep: Why Remove Jibs and Genoas

Published on July 31, 2020; last updated on July 31, 2020 by Carolyn Shearlock

Why simply tying off your roller furling jib or genoa isn’t sufficient for a tropical storm or hurricane — pictures of the results. [More] Hurricane Prep: Why Remove Jibs and Genoas

Making a Hurricane Plan for your Insurer

Published on March 28, 2020; last updated on June 12, 2020 by Carolyn Shearlock/Laura Lindstrom-Croop

If you’re cruising on your boat in a hurricane zone, your insurance company will want to see your hurricane plan. Here’s how to create yours from an insurance pro. [More] Making a Hurricane Plan for your Insurer

Are You Insured for Strangers on Your Boat?

Published on January 18, 2020; last updated on June 12, 2020 by Carolyn Shearlock/Laura Lindstrom-Croop

Does your insurance cover workers on your boat? How about delivery crew? Here’s what you need to know before having strangers on your boat. [More] Are You Insured for Strangers on Your Boat?

Treat Your Family Like Crew

Published on December 7, 2019; last updated on June 12, 2020 by Carolyn Shearlock/Pamela Douglas Webster

Worried about conflict while cruising on a boat with your family? Here’s how to communicate better by treating each other like crew. [More] Treat Your Family Like Crew

When Problems Multiply

Published on December 2, 2019; last updated on June 12, 2020 by Carolyn Shearlock

When one problem grows into two or three, it\’s easy to feel frustrated. But you can triumph! [More] When Problems Multiply

Deciding To Haul Out For A Hurricane – No Regrets

Published on August 31, 2019; last updated on June 12, 2020 by Carolyn Shearlock/Pamela Douglas Webster

A hurricane is coming. It may or may not reach your location. How do you make a decision and own it? Here’s one cruiser’s story. [More] Deciding To Haul Out For A Hurricane – No Regrets

Overwhelmed

Published on August 3, 2019; last updated on May 9, 2020 by Carolyn Shearlock/Cory Nickerson

Do you ever wonder if you’re the only cruiser who feels overwhelmed? Everyone who lives on a boat feels it sometimes. Really. [More] Overwhelmed

Will I Feel Lonely

Published on July 6, 2019; last updated on June 12, 2020 by Carolyn Shearlock/Pamela Douglas Webster

Do you wonder if you’ll feel lonely while cruising? Everyone does sometimes. Here are ideas that help. [More] Will I Feel Lonely

Cruising Stories: The Mystery of Unity’s Missing Rudder Plug

Published on June 22, 2019; last updated on June 11, 2020 by Carolyn Shearlock/Mary Jo WIseman

Ever put something in a memorable place just to forget where? Learn how not to do the same thing. [More] Cruising Stories: The Mystery of Unity’s Missing Rudder Plug

A Clean Boat Means Less Stress

Published on June 8, 2019; last updated on May 9, 2020 by Carolyn Shearlock/Pamela Douglas Webster

An emergency on the water taught me the importance of always keeping a clean boat. You never know when you’ll need to move in a hurry. [More] A Clean Boat Means Less Stress