DIY Tips

Owning a boat turns everyone into a DIY-er! Sometimes, there's just no one else to do the job.

Along the way, we've learned how to do many things a little more easily.

How to DIY a Cheap Cockpit Enclosure

Published on September 23, 2022; last updated on September 16, 2022 by Carolyn Shearlock

Planning to cruise in cold weather.?Then a cockpit enclosure is a must. But don’t spend thousands if you don’t have to. Here’s how to DIY a basic one for your cruising boat. [More] How to DIY a Cheap Cockpit Enclosure

Find a Fuel Problem on a Boat

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

How to find the cause of a fuel problem on a boat. Symptoms and possible causes, plus step-by-step strategies for finding it. [More] Find a Fuel Problem on a Boat

DIY Fuel Polishing

Published on July 26, 2020; last updated on May 25, 2021 by Carolyn Shearlock

If your boat has been sitting for a while, you may need to polish your fuel. Here’s how with suggested tools to make it easier to accomplish DIY fuel polishing. [More] DIY Fuel Polishing

DIY Boat Garden

Published on June 13, 2020; last updated on June 12, 2020 by Carolyn Shearlock/Liz & Risto Lappala

Yes, you can grow greens and herbs (and even tomatoes!) on your sailboat. Check out this clever DIY to help you make your own boat garden. [More] DIY Boat Garden

Gaining DIY Skills

Published on April 23, 2019; last updated on December 20, 2019 by Nica Waters

How installing 3 pieces of flooring in a closet helped me gain confidence to do boat work. [More] Gaining DIY Skills

One Careless Moment

Published on April 22, 2019; last updated on June 30, 2020 by Carolyn Shearlock

One careless moment caused a boat fire. What happened, what we did wrong and what we did right. A chilling story of an almost-disaster. [More] One Careless Moment

Switching from Ablative to Hard Bottom Paint

Published on March 25, 2019; last updated on June 12, 2020 by Carolyn Shearlock

Why we switched from ablative to hard bottom paint on our cruising sailboat, the alternative procedures for doing so and what it cost. [More] Switching from Ablative to Hard Bottom Paint

Feeling Stupid

Published on March 6, 2019; last updated on June 12, 2020 by Carolyn Shearlock

Feeling stupid. Boat work and the cruising life can do that to you. The lessons we learned as well as how to move on and regain confidence. [More] Feeling Stupid

Tips for Hauling Out Your Boat

Published on February 27, 2019; last updated on June 12, 2020 by Carolyn Shearlock

If hauling out your boat is a new experience, read these tips to make it easier and less stressful. 19 things you need to know! [More] Tips for Hauling Out Your Boat

Repairing Screw Holes in Teak

Published on December 12, 2018; last updated on June 12, 2020 by Carolyn Shearlock

A previous owner leave holes in the teak woodwork in your boat? It’s easier to repair than you think! Step-by-step how-to with photos. [More] Repairing Screw Holes in Teak

DIY Tips

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