Whether it’s dock lines, anchor snubber lines, mooring lines or even lines to tie your boat into the mangroves, lines are what will keep your boat in place . . . or not. [More] Hurricane Prep: Your Lines
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!
Post-Hurricane Dangers in the Water
Hurricanes wreck damage in so many ways — not just immediately but in the clean up as well. Be careful and don’t compound the tragedy. One friend’s life is hanging by a thread. No more, please. [More] Post-Hurricane Dangers in the Water
Why Did Barefoot Gal Survive Irma?
Barefoot Gal survived Hurricane Irma — a Category 4 storm — in an area where most boats didn’t. My thoughts on what spared her. [More] Why Did Barefoot Gal Survive Irma?
Help Your Neighbor, Help Yourself
Preparing for a hurricane? Don’t forget the boats around you. Helping them might be as important as prepping your own boat. [More] Help Your Neighbor, Help Yourself
Hurricane: Stay On the Boat or Not?
Staying on a boat during a hurricane is NOT recommended. But sometimes it’s the “least bad” alternative. What we learned from Hurricane Marty. [More] Hurricane: Stay On the Boat or Not?
No Natz
No-see-ums, gnats and other biting bites making the reality not quite live up to the dream? I recently found an effective spray that’s mild on skin and not harmful to pets who may lick. [More] No Natz
Hurricane Prep: Storing Things Below
When everything that was on deck has to come below, stowing it safely becomes a challenge. Two important things I’ve learned. [More] Hurricane Prep: Storing Things Below
Hurricane Prep: How Much Time Do You Have
If there is a hurricane headed towards you, a big question is always “how much time do I have to get ready?” The answer, we’ve come to realize, isn’t always so clear. Many forecasts estimate when the storm will be “at” a particular place or when it will make landfall. It’s important to know that […]
Don’t Lose Your Dinghy
Lost or stolen dinghies are heart-breaking, as they’re expensive to replace and your mobility is limited until you do. Tips to lessen the chances of the dinghy being stolen or floating free. [More] Don’t Lose Your Dinghy
Hurricane Prep: Reducing Windage
Prepping for a hurricane on your boat? Reducing windage is key, particularly if you’re at a dock, on the hard, or tied to mangroves where you won’t even nominally be head to wind. What you need to know. [More] Hurricane Prep: Reducing Windage
