Buying a Boat & Gear for It

Info, buying guides and recommended products to help you buy the perfect boat and everything for it, no matter your budget or cruising style. Learn more about:

Just want a simple list of stuff that has worked well for us? Go to my Amazon Store.

Dyson Cordless Handheld Vacuum

Published on August 14, 2017; last updated on August 31, 2020 by Carolyn Shearlock

We balked at the price of a Dyson. We bought other handheld vacuums and had them die or perform poorly. In the long run, the Dyson costs less. [More] Dyson Cordless Handheld Vacuum

Endless Breeze 12-Volt Fan

Published on June 21, 2017; last updated on August 31, 2020 by Carolyn Shearlock

At anchor or on a mooring, the Endless Breeze box fan provides extra cooling on super-hot days or when working in areas without permanently-mounted fans. [More] Endless Breeze 12-Volt Fan

Project Boat for a First Boat

Published on March 6, 2017; last updated on June 12, 2020 by Carolyn Shearlock

Project boats are sooo tempting. They seem like an inexpensive way to get into boating. Truth is, they’re likely to end up being more expensive . . . and you won’t be out on the water! [More] Project Boat for a First Boat

Outland Hatch Covers, Part 2

Published on December 12, 2016; last updated on January 27, 2017 by Carolyn Shearlock

More reasons why I love Outland Hatch Covers! [More] Outland Hatch Covers, Part 2

Crystal Wine Glasses

Published on November 29, 2016; last updated on June 10, 2020 by Carolyn Shearlock

Yes, it’s possible to use real crystal wine glasses on a boat. Royal Stabilis has created a no-slip, no tip and break resistant set to bring a touch of elegance to any boat. [More] Crystal Wine Glasses

Galleyware Nesting Pan Set

Published on November 4, 2016; last updated on March 25, 2021 by Carolyn Shearlock

A great nesting pan set — with numerous options as to number of pans and stainless/non-stick — at a budget-friendly price! [More] Galleyware Nesting Pan Set

Boat Window Screens

Published on October 8, 2016; last updated on October 14, 2020 by Carolyn Shearlock

Waterline Design hatch and port screens are cost effective, simple to use, easy to stow — and they keep mosquitoes and no-see-ums out of the boat! [More] Boat Window Screens

Aquabot Parts

Published on September 22, 2016; last updated on June 29, 2020 by Carolyn Shearlock

If your Aquabot should break, don’t throw it away! It’s easy and inexpensive to get parts. [More] Aquabot Parts

Taleisin’s Tales

Published on September 10, 2016; last updated on June 10, 2020 by Carolyn Shearlock

New book by Lin Pardey — join them as they shake down the second boat they built — Taleisin — and then cruise her from California to New Zealand. [More] Taleisin’s Tales

Anchoring Bridle with a Mantus Chain Hook

Published on April 25, 2016; last updated on April 29, 2021 by Carolyn Shearlock

A bridle (or snubbers) is an essential part of the anchoring system. How ours are set up and why we use the Mantus Chain Hook (hint: it stays on!) [More] Anchoring Bridle with a Mantus Chain Hook