Practical Boat Owner November 2017

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Contents 78

84
Welcome to the November 2017 issue
61
66

36

20 46
Cover photo: Hantu Biru sailing in Scotland
Credit: Ben Meakins

GEAR
36 Marine stereos on test
Restoring an Elizabethan 23 – page 46 We put seven marinised stereo
systems to the test

REGULARS BOATS 52 New Gear


A new range of low-cost GPS
5 Waiting for the tide 20 A French Connection and AIS-enabled navigation
The editor’s welcome Our pick of French 34-36ft cruisers systems, plus deck coatings
and stacking saucepans...
SAVE
6 News MONEY AND 46 Elizabethan 23 restoration
SUBSCRIBE
!
Labour of love to bring Elissa back CRUISING
10 Regional news Great offers
on 73 50 years of Drascombes 30 Sail training on
page 72
12 Readers’ letters The definitive dayboat? a Thames barge
Sam Llewellyn takes a trip on
14 Dave Selby SEAMANSHIP Thames Barge Reminder

16 Sam Llewellyn 84 Tight turns in long-keelers 56 Fowey


Getting a long keeler going astern Pilotage guide to Fowey
18 Andrew Simpson
80 Head over heels 88 Surprising Serifos
42 Ask the experts Learning from experience: Peter Phil Johnson finds an Aegean
Your questions answered Stone takes a tumble off a quay gem with a new marina

PRACTICAL
34 Practical projects
A winch handle for old hands, a
shower for a small boat and more

40 View from the boatyard


Mike Pickles constructs a new
shower compartment base

49 Descale an engine
Mark Ryan cleans out his Yanmar A winch handle for old hands – p34

61 Filling and fairing 78 Eberspächer silencer


PBO Project Boat gets smoother How to quieten your heater’s
exhaust
66 Choosing and fitting
26 Fitting log and speed a boarding ladder 82 Making the perfect
Tony Davies shows how to fit a David Parker fits a telescopic scarf joint
NASA log, speed and compass ladder to his motorboat Get it right every time

Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk 3


EDITORIAL
CONTACT PBO EDITORIAL
By email: pbo@timeinc.com
Via our website: www.pbo.co.uk
By post: PBO, Time Inc. (UK) Ltd, Pinehurst 2, Pinehurst
Road, Farnborough, Hants, GU14 7BF
By phone tel: +44 (0)1202 440820
Waiting for
the tide
Editor David Pugh
Office Manager/Brand Assistant Roz Jones
Deputy Editor Ben Meakins
News Editor Laura Hodgetts
Publisher Gareth Beesley
Group Managing Director Oswin Grady
with the editor
ARTICLE SUBMISSIONS
When submitting letters or other articles please include To receive the editor’s monthly email newsletter, go to our website: www.pbo.co.uk
hi-res digital images. Please include your name and full
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its associated companies reserve the right to re-use any
submission in any edition, format or medium. We cannot
All change, please
take responsibility for manuscripts or photos sent in.

T
ruth, we’re told, is It’s all change on the professional
SUBSCRIPTIONS stranger than fiction. front too. We said goodbye to
Tel: 0844 848 0848 (low call rate) Certainly, if I’d been Kev and Marco last month, and
Tel: +44(0)330 3330 233 (overseas) asked a year ago to this month it’s the turn of Ben,
Email: magazinesdirect@quadrantsubs.com
predict what would Roz and myself. Ben is leaving
BUY A BACK ISSUE happen over the to take up a new role with
Back issues cost £6.95 each. Tel: 01733 688964 following 12 months I doubt I electronics company Navico,
www.mags-uk.com/browse-by-publisher/time-inc.html would have written anything quite while Roz and I are looking
as dramatic as the reality, both for a fresh start elsewhere.
DISPLAY ADVERTISING personally and professionally. I think I can speak for all of us
Head of Market Michael Beattie 07803 722007
Media Advisor Chris Wilson 07989 428596 One of the biggest changes on when I say that our years at PBO
Senior Sales Executive James Leaver 07540 403750 a personal level has been the have been immensely rewarding
Senior Media Advisor Mark Taylor 07984 6403306 transformation of the PBO team and enjoyable. Ben and I are
Ad production Peter Burton 0203 148 2688
from a group of people either practical boat owners ourselves,
CLASSIFIED & TRADE ADVERTISING with kids long flown the nest, and have been privileged to be able
Tevin Tom, 01252 555325, email tevin.tom@timeinc.com or married with no children. to write about our hobby, a major
Advertise online at www.ybw.com/buy-and-sell Ben Meakins broke the mould highlight of course being our work
with the appearance of his on the project boats, first Hantu
MARKETING daughter Ivy in December 2016, Biru and later our Secret 20.
Marketing Exec Amy Golby Tel: 07890 173757
and a few months later in July my Roz has been the first point of
SYNDICATION wife Camilla and I welcomed our contact for readers calling the
Time Inc. (UK) Ltd Syndication offers you the opportunity new arrival, Clarissa. Like all new office for 12 years, and in that
to license content from a leading portfolio of magazines. dads I’m besotted. She’s already time has had many interesting
We can license content to be used in print, broadcasting, been on the boat, aged just four conversations, ranging from
online, marketing and advertising. To discuss costs and
requirements, please contact: +44 (0) 203 148 5000. weeks, and instantly fell asleep, as fascinating to downright bizarre.
you can see in the photo below. That’s no surprise: PBO readers
NEWSAGENTS – TO STOCK PBO I’ll take that as a good sign. are an interesting and often
Contact Mike Dore Tel: 020 3147 9177 Our news editor, Laura, isn’t eccentric bunch, and we’ve
Email: mike_dore@marketforce.co.uk
far behind either. She started her thoroughly enjoyed meeting
PRIVATE BOATS FOR SALE maternity leave in early September you at shows around the country.
Andrew Jones, 01252 555302 and by the time this magazine Our Ask the Experts events at
email: andrew.james-jones@timeinc.com reaches you should have a baby Beaulieu and Scotland’s Boat
girl of her own. She’ll be returning Show have been real highlights.
in a year’s time as Features and Some of you may already know
WWW.PBO.CO.UK News Editor for the marine group. the new Editor, Theo Stocker. Until
All of us at PBO wish her all the recently he was News and Features
To advertise on www.pbo.co.uk please contact
the Display Advertising team, listed above very best for the future. Editor for Yachting Monthly, and
he’ll now be editing both titles.
He’s an excellent journalist and
sailor with several ocean passages
and a spell in the Royal Navy to his
www.twitter.com/p_b_o www.facebook.com/ credit, and is a competent pair of
practicalboatownermag hands to ensure PBO’s future.
Practical Boat Owner (incorporating The Yachtsman, Yachtsman & Boat, Helmsman, Practical Boating,
Yachting & Boating Weekly, Yacht & Boat Owner, Boat and Yachts & Equipment) is published monthly
(13 issues pa) by Time Inc. (UK) Ltd, 161 Marsh Wall, London, England E14 9AP. Pre-press services by
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Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk 5


News SEND US YOUR STORIES
Email news editor Laura Hodgetts at
pbo@timeinc.com, tel: 01202 440820

News and current affairs from the world of boating

A
Irma Survivor
nchored in tranquil
Privateer Bay in
aquamarine waters on
board a beautiful 51ft
power catamaran, we
took a moment after Scott and Niki Smith describe surviving Hurricane Irma in
serving our guests
canapés and ice
Road Bay Marina, Tortola in the British Virgin Islands
cold Pouilly Fume to
download the daily
weather forecast.
We saw perfectly calm Devastation
weather predicted for the caused by
Hurricane Irma
next three or four days. We
also checked the National
Hurricane Centre (NHC)
website and there, located
close to the Cape Verde
Islands over 1,000 miles to
our east, was a depression
becoming organised.
For the following three
days we continued the
charter with our six guests
cruising the crystal clear
waters of the British Virgin
Islands all the while continuing to
monitor the depression. Our guests
were stunned by the natural beauty of
the islands and the breathtaking
snorkelling the waters have to offer
while enjoying wonderful cuisine
prepared by Chef Niki.
In regular contact with our base we
all became more interested in the
depression, which had now formed
These charter catamarans were lifted up and thrown around like toys
into a hurricane. The NHC prediction
model showed Hurricane Irma now chance, having experienced hurricanes We took refuge in a small basement
heading directly towards the Leeward before. We dropped them off in Trellis Bay, bedroom in The Moorings hotel next to the
Islands and then on to the BVIs. Beef Island to jump on the first available marina with six other crew members, as
The Moorings Base office informed flight out and we motored back to base in the wind started to pick up through the
us to be prepared to be recalled, so Road Bay Marina, Tortola. night. A couple of shots of rum helped
asked us not to travel too far away On arrival we found the base a hive of ease the tension before we bunked down
from base. Our American guests, after activity. Hundreds of yachts were being on the floor to get a few hours rest before
a lengthy discussion, decided to ‘get secured and stripped of their sails; all were Irma came knocking in the early hours.
the hell out!’ while they had the anchored with canopies removed in By first light the wind was at gale force.
preparation for Irma. After securing our On stepping out of our room we could see
beloved Allie Cat we joined the team of debris starting to gather: branches from
ABOUT THE AUTHOR workers stripping the boats of lifebuoys, trees, loose panels off old buildings and
Scott and Niki Smith barbecues, cushions, winch handles and guttering. Yachts were already jerking
grew up in the any other potential missiles. against their mooring lines and the line of
Channel Islands and
have been around
We made the most of the last few hours rafted yachts was already starting to snake.
boats most of their of daylight to raft up the final yachts This was just the beginning, the outer
lives. After hosting coming in from their charters. Hundreds of bands of Irma were already causing
friends and family tyres were sourced locally and put into significant damage. We stood in a partially
on their own boat
they gained
black polythene bags to be used as covered passageway between two
commercial additional fenders. Whole new drums of buildings to observe the yachts, but by
qualifications in warp were rolled out of the store to be cut 1000 it was getting hard to physically resist
2016 and have since to length for us to use. No expense was the force of the wind, and flying debris was
worked in the
charter business.
spared to secure the millions of pounds becoming a danger. By 1100 the roar and
worth of yachts lying within the marina. strength of the wind was our cue to return

6 Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk


NEWS

to the safety of our room, from where we


had no view of the marina because the
windows had been boarded up the
previous day. With each strengthening
gust we all could feel the pressure on our
ears as if we were diving. The electricity
was cut off and the building started to
vibrate. The crashing and banging from
unknown objects flying through the air
was horrendous. The door struggled to
stay on its hinges and then the roof of the
building was torn off. We heard shouts as
guests in the hotel ran for safety to take
shelter in other buildings.
For the next hour it seemed certain that
the building would be unable to withstand
this battering and the extreme forces of
Hurricane Irma. We anxiously awaited the
respite of the eye of the storm.
As the noises started to abate we
cautiously opened the door and stepped
out to see the
destruction. Trees
had been
uprooted, the
hotel gardens
completely
destroyed. Turning
to look at the
marina, we were
horrified to see the
damage. Allie Cat
was still in her
berth but with a ABOVE
mast smashed Devastation in the
marina, with
into her foredeck barely a mast left
from the standing
neighbouring
yacht. There was Boats were sunk and capsized, and cleats and bollards were ripped out by the storm
an eerie stillness injured people.
in the air and, as we looked up, we could we sat listening to what can best be The generators kicked in restoring power
see blue sky surrounded by a bank of described as a freight train powering over to some of the buildings. There was little
swirling grey clouds. The eye of Irma was and around us. we could do for the boats until the water
magical. Finally the wind decreased to a gale and levels returned to normal and the winds
The sea level had risen over the we opened the doors. What once had had dropped making it safer to get on
concrete pontoons. We stood with others been a tropical paradise now looked like a board to assess the few salvageable
looking at the damage to all the yachts in fire had raged through it. No leaves were boats.
disbelief. Many masts had fallen, some left on any of the trees. Everything was Our experience of Hurricane Irma will
yachts had been flung on to the pontoon, blackened as if a bomb had gone off. never be forgotten. It was breathtaking
all were battered and bruised. In the marina, we could see a jumble of and terrifying. We feel so sorry for the
Quite suddenly and with no warning the upturned yachts, severed masts and many locals who have lost their homes
calm was over. The wind howled and catamarans flipped like coins on top of and businesses all within a few hours.
strengthened from the opposite direction each other. Many yachts had been lifted On a positive note, the Virgin Islands
now blowing in from the sea at an out of the water on to the pontoons; some remains one of the most beautiful places
alarming rate. The second half of Irma were barely afloat, heeled over, many on earth, with exquisite beaches,
was upon us. others had sunk with just masts marking spectacular rock formations, warm
Shaking and distressed we raced back the spot where they were tied. turquoise waters and fabulous dive sites.
to the shelter of our room not knowing the We gazed in disbelief – it was as if we With over 50 islands to explore, each with
worst was yet to come. Water began to had stepped onto the set of an action film. their own character and vibe this is a
flood up through the bathroom shower The wind continued to subside and the never-to-be-forgotten holiday destination
drain and in from the boarded up patio remaining yachts now lay in a soup of that will recover its former glory.
doors which faced the marina. We had no rubble, timber and vegetation. Jetties and The tropical climate lends itself to
way of knowing how high the surge would finger pontoons were missing, having creating rich fertile landscapes and the
be so we discussed an escape route if the collapsed under the tremendous force of local people are friendly and will be
water reached waist height. Fortunately it the wind. determined to welcome sailors back to
didn’t come to that. For the next two hours For the last hour of daylight we did head their beautiful sailing waters as quickly
the noise was deafening. In the darkness counts, checking for any missing or as possible.

Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk 7


NEWS

Britain Afloat: new BBC boating The Mercy:


series to air this autumn Donald
Sailors craving their nautical fix
might like to tune in to BBC 2
Crowhurst
on Saturday evenings this
autumn. A new BBC series, film delays
Britain Afloat, sees presenter
Mary-Ann Ochota travel the The film about Donald
coasts and waterways of Crowhurst’s Ill-fated attempt to
Britain, discovering how boats win the Golden Globe race will
have shaped the lives of the now be released in the UK next
people that use them. Starting year. The Mercy, which stars
on Saturday 30 September Colin Firth as Crowhurst and
(available on iPlayer in UK) at Rachel Weisz as his wife,
8.30pm, the series runs for the Claire, was scheduled to be
next six Saturdays. Mary-Ann Ochota filming the first episode, Thames Barges released on 27 October 2017.
The series explores the Now the IMDb website is
regional diversity in boat In each episode, Mary-Ann Schedule listing the film as being
design and the floating way of uncovers the story of a BBC 2, Saturdays, 8.30pm released in the UK on
life, from the modest coracle – different boat’s design and Part 1: Thames barges 9 February 2018.
whose shape was adapted to evolution and discovers the Part 2: The coracle Don McIntyre, organiser of
suit individual rivers across impact it had on the people Part 3: The narrow boat the 50th Anniversary race that
Britain – to the imposing and communities who have Part 4: The punt will be sailed next year,
Thames sailing barges – boats used it, both in days gone by, Part 5: Mersey sailing boats claimed: ‘They have held the
that helped build London. and today. Part 6: The rowing eight

Clipper skipper replaced after injury


A replacement skipper has Describing his new role, not just on the leaderboard
been appointed for the Andy, who already has over but also within themselves,
Greenings team in the 60,000 nautical miles in his though of course I am keen release date to partly hook into
Clipper Round the World log-book, commented: “It is a to get them as many points the 2018 50th anniversary
Race after the original great honour to be joining as possible in the process!’ edition of the original 1968
skipper, David Hartshorn, had such a prestigious global Leg 2, the 3,560-mile South Golden Globe’
to be evacuated by helicopter event as the Clipper Race. My Atlantic Challenge, from Directed by James Marsh,
following a serious hand aim is to continue the Uruguay to Cape Town, will The Mercy follows Crowhurst’s
injury. Andy Woodruff, 41, fantastic work that David start on 4 October 2017 and attempt to race around the
from Poole, has been named Hartshorn has started on will take approximately 17 world to win the 1968-69
interim skipper and was due board Greenings. days to complete. From Cape Golden Globe Race on his
to join the team in Punta del I believe it is important that Town, the Clipper Race will trimaran, Teignmouth Electron,
Este, Uruguay, at the end of the crew get the most out of continue on to Fremantle in and his subsequent descent
September. this experience as possible, Western Australia. into falsehood and madness.

Dave Selby Impractical Boat Owner book launch


PBO Columnist Dave Selby with cartoons by Jake Impractical Boat Owner is an
has released a book of his Kavanagh. Themes covered antidote to all that’s written
early writings. The Impractical include: First attempts at about expensive shiny new
Boat Owner: Tales and Trials sailing, how not yachts, self-improvement, the
from years of Floundering to sail singlehanded, quest for qualifications and
Afloat is a collection of Dave’s mysteries of maintenance, practical skills.
columns, expanded for the how not to sail with a dog, the
book, and with additional impenetrable mysteries of Dave Selby’s The Impractical
Boat Owner is published by
‘Lessons Not Learned’ hints navigation and weather and
Bloomsbury, costs £9.99.
and tips boxes, all illustrated how not to race. The

• Quality engineering
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8 Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk


NEWS

rya seeks government assurances Diary Dates


on red diesel after Belgian fines n Kent Boat Jumble,
8 October, The Hop Farm,
in mid-September 2017. Tonbridge. boat-jumbles.co.uk
The meeting comes after n HMS Trincomalee’s Secret
British boat owners were fined Stories, 18 October.
in Belgium for having traces of The last in a series of talks by
the Curator, Clare Hunt, given
red diesel in their tanks (see
as part of the ship’s bicentenary
PBO news, September 2017 celebrations.
issue). These issues were the The talks are half an hour long
subject of a ‘productive’ and focus on different themes,
discussion between HMRC, uncovering some of the histories
Craig Mackinlay MP, the RYA, of the ship that aren’t covered
and the Cruising Association. on the site or in the guidebooks.
RYA Cruising Manager, They take place lunchtimes and
Stuart Carruthers, said: ‘The evenings in the Baltic Suite at
National Museum of the Royal
UK Government and the
Navy, Hartlepool. Tickets are £5
European Commission have each (£10 with entry to site).
been in discussions over the https://tickets.historicdockyard.
continued availability of co.uk/WebStore/shop/
An EU committee on Excise Duty met in mid-September 2017 marked ‘red’ diesel for use in ViewItems.
private pleasure craft in the UK aspx?CG=NMRN&C=EVE2
The RYA has welcomed stance on red diesel as the for several years. We will n Scotland’s Boat Show, 13-15
assurances from Her Majesty’s Committee on Excise Duties continue to actively lobby on October, Kip Marina, featuring
Revenue and Customs and Indirect Tax Expert Group this matter, working closely free talks and demonstrations
(HMRC) that the department (attended by all 28 EU states) with HMRC, and will keep with PBO Ask the Experts Live!
www.scotlandsboatshow.co.uk
will strive to defend the UK prepared to consider the issue boaters informed.’
n East Hants (Indoor) Boat
Jumble, 5 November, Havant
Leisure Centre, Hampshire,

Lobster pot survey and petition boat-jumbles.co.uk


n London Boat Show 2018,

relaunched following election 10-14 January, at London


ExCeL, londonboatshow.com
n Round Britain and Ireland
2018, 3 June two-handed race,
Sailors and powerboaters are Plymouth start, rwyc.org/rbandi
being urged to log issues and n Golden Globe Race 2018,
entanglements with fishing will start on 30 June, Plymouth,
gear. Since the launch of the www.goldengloberace.com
RYA’s online form in May 2017, n The Irish Sailing and
just 85 reports have been Mountaineering Adventure
submitted despite Challenge 2018
considerable anecdotal The Irish Sailing and
evidence that incidents occur Mountaineering Adventure
Challenge – The ISAMAC –
much more frequently. The
will start at 6pm on Saturday
reporting of 58 entanglements 16 June 2018 in Kinsale, and
and 27 observations has involves yacht crews sailing
proved useful in identifying and mountain-running through
hotspots around the country some of the most picturesque
and the RYA has published a scenery in Ireland.
‘heat map’ of poorly marked The challenge starts with
fishing gear based on the a 12.5km ‘Two Forts’ running
incident reports. race around Kinsale. Crews
then sail to Adrigole to run the
The RYA’s fishing gear
Hungry Hill ridge, before sailing
entanglement report provides to Templenoe to cycle to and
a simple to complete electronic climb Carrauntoohil – Ireland’s
form in an attempt to collate highest mountain at 1038m.
quantitative data to support The final sailing leg is to Dingle,
boaters’ concerns. from where the runners will
A petition recently launched take the ridge to Mount
by the Cruising Association Brandon (952m) and back to
urges the Minister of State Dingle to the finish – in John
Benny’s Pub.
(DEFRA) to improve the way A map of reported entanglements around the UK and Irish coast www.ISAMAC-race.com
static fishing gear is marked for
the safety of all small craft at underpinned by data, it may rather than factual evidence.
Send your diary dates
sea. With over 3,200 signatures simply be seen by The online reporting form is to pbo@timeinc.com,
to date it is evident that boaters Government as an emotive readily available on the RYA see more online at
feel strongly about this issue, demand for action based on website at www.rya.org.uk/go/ www.pbo.co.uk/events
but unless the petition is nothing more than opinion entanglements.

Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk 9


Regional News
News from your cruising area Send us your local news stories. Email PBO news editor Laura Hodgetts at
pbo@timeinc.com, tel: 01202 440820, or write to the address on page 5

independence as they explore harbour-side canopy, timber


downstream and learn how to cladding, a monopitch roof
drive and crew the powerboat. and large timber windows,
Graham said: ‘It is an honour to enabling the RNLI to survey
be able to leave such a fantastic Newlyn Harbour and well out
legacy for James.’ south and east into Mount’s Bay
and beyond.
SOUTH-EAST Penlee’s current lifeboat station
in Newlyn was built in 1983 as a
coMMunity regatta temporary measure and is no
success longer fit for purpose. With
The Port of Dover Community approximately 25 volunteer crew
Barmouth RNLI stand by an unmanned yacht caught under a bridge Regatta was hailed a success, and additional shore crew as
with glorious weather greeting the well as fundraisers using the
WALES food and beverage outlets, 10,000 attendees, who watched a building, there is an urgent need
offices, shops and workshops, is mock yacht rescue by Dover for more space.
Wedged yacht the most recent development in Walmer RNLI, as well as
Both Barmouth RNLI lifeboats, an ongoing programme of formation flights, victory rolls and CHANNEL ISLANDS
the harbour master and investment for the company. Last loop-the-loops by Spitfires from
Barmouth coastguard team year saw the company double the Old Flying Machine Wash concerns
attended when a 34ft yacht broke the size of its Cardiff boatyard; Company. Rowing and sailing Guernsey Harbour Master has
its moorings and became caught purchase an outboard engine races were held, including the published a report following an
in Barmouth bridge, in Gwynedd, company, a dredger and a Royal Cinque Ports Yacht Club investigation into allegations of
north-west Wales. The inshore Sealift. Drew McDonald, director Regatta, which was won by the extreme wash at La Valette
lifeboat was launched at 6.29pm of The Marine & Property Group yacht Black Diamond. Bathing Pools, Havelet Bay.
when the call from UK said: ‘We will be introducing a Ashore, the event had more At 1815 on 8 July 2017, police
Coastguard came in on number of initiatives to Port than 90 stalls and more than 80 and medics were called to the
21 August, followed by the Dinorwic Marina including our vintage vehicles provided by bathing pools in St Peter Port due
all-weather lifeboat at 6.45pm. Refer a Friend promotion and a Dover Transport Museum. The to reports that the high-speed
Given that there was no-one on Visitor Exchange Programme regatta raised money for Kelly Condor Liberation ferry had
board the stricken yacht, a fast between our marinas in Cardiff, Turner Fundraising, in support of caused a swell, which, due to the
flowing incoming tide, and the Aberystwyth and Port Dinorwic.’ a Dover teenager who needs height of tide washed into the
fact the yacht was wedged under £1 million for specialist cancer open air pools and knocked
the bridge, the decision was SOUTH treatment in America. swimmers into the walls.
made to stand-off until after high Approximately six people were
water at 8.55pm. Lasting Legacy for SOUTH-WEST injured, suffering abrasions to the
The yacht’s rigging was caught cheeki rafiki creW skin, ingesting seawater, an anxiety
up in the bridge meaning any The legacy of Cheeki Rafiki neW PenLee station attack and the effects of the cold.
recovery had to be taken slowly crewman James Male lives on PLans unveiLed The report found that following
to avoid endangering the at the QE2 Activity Centre in The RNLI has submitted a traffic avoidance with the cruise
volunteer crew or the bridge itself. Hampshire. planning application for a new ship Adonia, the Master of
At 9.43pm the mast on the A new wheelchair-accessible Penlee lifeboat station building at Condor Liberation had altered
yacht broke under the pressure powerboat has been launched Newlyn Harbour. course to less than 325°T to
of the changing tide. This on the River Hamble, named The proposed new station would regain track which is likely to
released the cruiser from the after the sailor who was among house a larger crew/operational have generated of a wave of
bridge and enabled the inshore four people lost during an room, training room, changing approximately 60cm.
lifeboat to guide the vessel to a Atlantic crossing in May 2014. room and workshop, along with a However this wave is unlikely to
safe location. Graham and Lorraine Male visitor engagement area. have been of the magnitude
raised almost £13,000 towards The two-storey building would reported. The wash effect of
Marina acquisition the cost of the Wheelyboat and be built on the same site as the Adonia is likely to have reached
The Marine & Property Group new kayaks for the centre in existing station, which will operate the pools at around the same
Ltd has acquired the 180-berth memory of their son James. from temporary facilities during time, compounded by both the
Port Dinorwic Marina, in The new Coulam Wheelyboat construction. Features would Trident V approach to St Peter
north-west Wales. V20 will supplement the centre’s include solar panels on the Port and a large motor yacht
The group already owns boating activities for disabled entering Havelet Bay at speed.
the 350-berth Cardiff Marina, people. The QE2 Activity Centre As a result of the incident and
165-berth Aberystwyth Marina, prides itself in being fully investigation, Condor has
110 drystack spaces in Cardiff, inclusive and the special features amended approach procedures,
Cardiff Marine Village marine of the Wheelyboat, developed by additional warning signage has
business park, and boatyards in The Wheelyboat Trust and been put in place and CCTV will
Cardiff and Swansea. JM Coulam Boatbuilders, will be used to monitor the pools
The acquisition of Port Dinorwic provide users with mobility during the arrival and departure
Marina, which includes a range of impairments with complete Lasting legacy for James Male of high-speed craft.

10 Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk


DE UE DAY
IS UR
TH
S S
CE ON , N
M S OV
Next

BE AL 2
R E
going on, and even lend a hand if
they feel like it.’

month
Contact: adams.mcgilp@
btinternet.com

NORTH-EAST
SUNDERLAND TO HOST PRACTICAL
TALL SHIPS 2018
Sunderland has been chosen as How to paint your decks
one of the home ports for the Tall in winter
Ships Races in 2018. ■ Mark Ryan strips and paints
An explosive World War II mine washed up at Ballycastle The races are open to any cabin and deck under canvas
monohull sailing vessel of more between winter storms
IRELAND of America’s Cup challengers, is than 9.14m waterline length,
Plus
MINE WASHED UP to go on public display following provided that at least 50 per cent
■ Rebuild a Yanmar 1GM10
Police and Coastguard a restoration project. of the crew is aged between 15
■ Repair a Raymarine Wheelpilot
personnel were called in to deal Texa had been out of the water and 25 years old and that the
■ Tidy up your wiring GE
with a Naval mine that washed up for nearly three decades, when vessel meets strict safety
on a beach in mid-September. David Adams McGilp and equipment requirements. Leader GEAR
Army Ammunition Technical Howard Nixon acquired her for of Sunderland City Council,
Officers were also summoned £250 in 1987 and restored her Councillor Paul Watson said: Distress Beacons
to the scene at Ballycastle, over a period of about nine ‘This is fantastic news that ■ PBO buyer’s guide to help you
Co. Antrim, where the mine was months. She was relaunched in Sunderland has been chosen as choose between and select the
eventually destroyed in a 1988 and sailed up and down the a host port for The Tall Ships right EPIRB, AIS SART and PLB
controlled explosion. west of Scotland for many races in 2018. This success BOATS
Mines were laid close to the seasons afterwards. David of reflects the enthusiastic response
entrance to Lough Foyle during Lochgilphead, Argyll, the from partners, organisations and Seaward 39
the Second World War in order to custodian of Texa, said the yacht individuals across the whole ■ A motorboat for retired sailors?
protect Allied shipping during the was hauled out again four years region who supported our bid.’ David Harding puts her to the test
Battle of the Atlantic. ago and is now about to undergo Hanse and Bavaria
another restoration, before going EAST ■ Peter Poland’s selection of
NORTH-WEST to the Scottish Maritime Museum popular German 34-36ft cruisers
for permanent display. David SOUTHWOLD PICOS
YACHT TOWED INTO added: ‘Scottish Canals are Southwold Sailing Club has been SEAMANSHIP
WHITEHAVEN generously supporting this awarded £10,000 from the Big Anchor in a tight spot
A 25ft yacht had to be towed endeavour by providing Lottery Fund to buy six boats and ■ Expert advice on making sure
into Whitehaven harbour on workspace in Ardrishaig Basin train five instructors in a bid to you stay put in crowded
7 September after suffering car park. The public will also be inspire people to embrace the anchorages
engine failure. Members of St able to come and see what’s sport. Robin Watkins, the
Bees RNLI received reports just commodore of Southwold Sailing CRUISING
after 4pm about the yacht which Club said his aim was to Falmouth for orders

Contents subject to change


was en route to Whitehaven. encourage people to abandon a ■ Local knowledge for this famous
A spokesman for St Bees RNLI ‘Game Boy’ culture of mobile West Country port
said: ‘The volunteer crew quickly phones and video games. He
arrived on scene but said: ‘Sailing can be challenging Ireland’s West Coast
unfortunately due to the state of at times, but if you pick the right ■ A 1937 gaff cutter heads up the
the tide they were unable to tow day then you can have a really Atlantic coast of the Emerald Isle
the vessel into Whitehaven good experience. It is about
Harbour until after 9pm. getting people off their backsides.
‘As the sailing boat and its They will get wet and tired, but DECEMBER PBO ON SALE
skipper were not in any they will come away with a THURSDAY, 2 NOVEMBER
immediate danger it was decided Sloop Texa to be restored good experience.’
that the best course of action was
for the lifeboat to return to the
station and wait for the tide.’ HOLEPROOF
He said St Bees RNLI flank CLASSIC SWEATER
station at Workington launched at Colours: Navy, Red
around 9pm and towed the yacht Sizes: S-XL
safely into Whitehaven Harbour Force 4 Price: £99.95
where they were met by This Scandinavian classic t-neck
members of Whitehaven HM sweater never goes out of style.
Coastguard.
Bargains
of the
Moss knitted and constructed
with a windproof lining to keep
out the sea breeze, with a
SCOTLAND contrast coloured border and

RESTORATION
PROJECT
month... fabric lining on the collar.
■ Force 4
Tel: 0845 130 0710
A small Bermudan sloop that was More great bargains in www.force4.co.uk
built on the Clyde in 1935 for Col. the Chandlery section
DFD Neill, Sir Thomas Lipton’s PRICE: £99.95
starting on page 56
advisor on the Shamrock series

Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk 11


Letters Email pbo@timeinc.com
or write to us at the address on page 5.
Photos are appreciated, letters may be edited.

Readers share their thoughts and opinions

Kipling wasn’t exceedingly fond of sailing


■ I can’t identify Marcus up the Nile on the
Tylor’s grandfather’s boat SS Rameses III, III
(Letters, PBO September owned by Thomas
2017) which looks too big Cook. This kind of trip
for a private pleasure yacht to the only recently
– a barque-rigged sloop, peaceful Egypt was
she must be at least 100 fashionable during
feet long. But I can shed British winters,
some light on Rudyard between the Battle
Kipling, whom Mr Tylor’s of Omdurman in Looking for
mother remembers seeing
photos of on a cruise to
the 1898 (or
Kitchener’s
boating pals
Egypt shortly before WW1, machine-gun ■ As a PBO subscriber for
and his attitude to boats. massacre, well over a decade, it was with
Although he wrote revenge for the great interest I read ‘Day-
prolifically about the sea, death of Gordon sailing delight’ (Letters, PBO
and had close connections at Khartoum, September 2017).
with the Royal Navy, depending on I’m an older guy (72) who
Kipling went to sea to your view of has always loved the sea, and
gather material, or to get Empire), and the when I retired I bought a cabin
somewhere. Only rarely did First World War, in cruiser which I sailed on
he go yachting, and then which Kipling lost inland water. Sadly my wife
only to be sociable and his only son John. lost interest so I sold the boat
please his children (he took Could it be that the after three years and bought a
them on trips with his friend friend: ‘I hate yachts and nets photographs Mr Tylor’s large inflatable which, though
and financial advisor, the of slimy fish flopping about mother recalls seeing were fun, was again domestically
London stockbroker Barclay the deck.’ taken aboard the Persia or unacceptable, so I decided to
Harper Walton, aboard his Kipling did travel to Egypt in the Rameses III in 1913, cut my losses and buy a
steam yacht, the Bantam, February 1913 as a passenger and not on great stable sea fishing kayak.
between 1905 and 1911). aboard the P&O liner the grandfather’s yacht? This worked well until
Kipling didn’t sail for SS Persia, embarking at Rupert Maas deteriorating health meant I
pleasure, and wrote to a Marseilles. He then travelled Camberwell, London resorted to replacing the
kayak with a safe, stable,
roomy boat that’s easy to
What lies beneath? Finding your move around.
My purchase was a Takacat,
■ The yard at which I’m renovating my yacht Anne Marie recently way around a relatively new design of
euthanised an ancient wooden yacht. They removed the two and ■ Trying to find an article in inflatable catamaran from New
a half tonne lump of iron keel and this is what they found. the 60-plus PBO’s I have on a Zealand, which can be carried
Note that the top of the keel bolts all appear to be in relatively shelf, I thought what is needed in my car, can be rowed if I’m
fine fettle – indeed most of the bolts undid with little bother. is an index system. feeling up to it, and is fine for a
A couple, however, were more trouble and sheared off. So with a pile of plastic small engine for longer cruising.
There were, I think, nine (possibly 10) keel bolts holding this on sleeves and a ring binder, I My problem is that I’d like to
and every one is corroded to almost nothing. removed all the contents find other like-minded sailors
Owners of boats with keel bolts need to be aware and take heed pages and slipped them into with maybe slight physical
that what you see is not individual plastic sleeves. It’s disabilities who’d like good
necessarily what you get. so much easier to leaf through company whilst sailing their
Mike Stephens 60 pages in a ring binder than craft and in doing so have
Tenterden, Kent sift through 60 magazines! great banter on many
Total cost r3.50. topics. But I can’t find any
Chris Othen club or association, anywhere
Cyprus in Scotland (I live in
Edinburgh) that caters for this
David Pugh says: You can group of people.
also find many PBO articles There must be hundreds, if
listed online. Visit pbo.co.uk not thousands, of older,
and click ‘search now’ under relatively active, people out
PBO Copy Service. It’ll help there…
you find the issue and page Grahame Wear
numbers. Edinburgh

12 Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk


www.twitter.com/p_b_o www.facebook.com/practicalboatownermag

Fantastic PBO Crossword No.8


Marina Guide
■ I must commend PBO on
the publication earlier this year
(PBO Summer 2017) of your
guide to the marinas around
our coast.
On a trip from the North Sea
round to Milford Haven this Tri again
year, the information proved ■ I own the Trimaran
invaluable, not only with Shangaan designed and built
regard to access by Andrew Simpson and his
arrangements, depths etc but friends and referred to in his
also in terms of costs. article ‘The View Astern’ (PBO
Being able to quickly check September 2017).
the facts and refer to the She’s coming up to being a
contact details was a godsend, classic boat but many have
saving us both time and money commented how she was a
in what was a difficult trip with design before her time –usually
ever changing weather patterns just after we beat them in a
that shot holes in our original race!. She now sports
passage plan. asymmetric dagger boards in
Best marina on our trip: the floats which give her
Eastbourne, clean, well laid awesome upwind
out, friendly and helpful staff. ACROSS DOWN
performance. She glides
Most expensive: Falmouth. effortlessly through the water in 7 Twin-headsail rig (6) 1 Phonetic Z (4)
£35 for a brief overnight stay light airs and is as responsive 8 Haul boat down for 2 Boom on the port side
with no staff apparently as a racing dinghy. cleaning (6) of the vessel (9,4)
available to provide gate Few believe she’s actually a 9 Wire-like ridge on plane 3 Loose-footed storm sail (7)
codes to facilities. wooden boat that has taken blade after sharpening (4) 4 Propel dinghy with one oar
Most confusing (but care of me through many 10 Ketch or schooner (5,3) over the transom (5)
ultimately very helpful): stormy seas. I have loved this 11 Boat pox (7) 5 Navigation instrument (6,7)
Portland which was poorly lit boat and we’ve shared some 13 Phonetic I (5) 6 Longitude line (8)
for yachts entering and trying fabulous adventures together. 15 Wood joint at 45 degrees (5) 12 Amount of canvas (4,4)
to find an allocated berth. Normally seen moored or 16 Unpleasant motion at 14 RIB helm box (7)
Jeremy Percy sailing on the River Medway anchor (7) 17 European Inland Waterways
By email she is, though, a younger 18 Mast passes through these certificate (5)
man’s boat so if any PBO at the deck (8) 20 Anchor failing to hold (4)
readers would like to take care 19 Current (4)
Wrongfooted of her for the next 50 years then 21 Fixed navigation mark (6)

by Octopus she still has much fun to give.


Bryan Wright
22 Sideways movement (6)

by email Answers on page 98


■ PBO is a brilliant
magazine… always a treat
to receive. SEADOG OF
And it was a delight to read
the October 2017 issue where, THE MONTH
in a letter, Geoff Humphrey
says he was ‘pleased to see Percy
Octopus again’. ■ Percy is
But the picture of the lovely our six-year-
ketch next to the article isn’t old Border
Octopus as Geoff will know – Terrorist, rat
here’s a picture of the old girl catcher elect
that should have been (he hasn’t
featured instead. caught any
Geoff will be pleased to hear yet!). He’s pictured on board
that we had a wonderful cruise our boat Dark Ivy at
in her up the West Coast of Darthaven Marina.
Scotland to Fort William, Mull, Anthony Purnell
Skye to Lewis then Cape
Wrath to explore Orkney
Send us your
before heading back south
to Inverness.
Plastic Boats? Bah... 10 tons
£30 seadog photos
for our web
gallery www.pbo.co.uk/seadogs
of mahogany, oak and brass and your pet may be lucky enough
is by far the best! to become Seadog of the Month
Oliver Chapple and win you £30
By email

Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk 13


Dave Selby Dave Selby is the proud owner of a 5.48m (18ft)
Mad about the boat Sailfish, which he keeps on a swinging mooring
on the picturesque Blackwater estuary in Essex

‘Well, the standing powerful masking scent on the planet –


headroom is in the Brut aftershave. And industries worked
cockpit and the two
hand in glove – literally, for when nylon
extra berths are in
the car....’ was spun off into boat ropes this led to
the development of sailing gloves to
protect hands from the bristles.
But an even greater revelation was that
feet and inches were much longer back
then, because every 20ft boat had at
least four berths, sometimes more; even
boats smaller than that had the luxury
of full lying headroo m – and that even
included every open boat on the market.
Many yachts even boasted ‘flush toilets’:
they didn’t flush, but their seat lids
were flush with the bunk top. Sadly
this development eventually stalled.
But the most notable thing of all was
that journalists were a lot nicer back then
and far more amenable to a long lunch
in an agreeable gentleman’s club with
these trailblazing blazered titans of

The golden age


British industry. Back then, journalists
had standards, and wore blazers too.
But that all changed.
How saddened I was to see how chippy

of yachting and unsupportive they became in the


1980s and cite an article which sourly
rounded on the Westerly 22 for its
‘hideously inefficient looking shallow bilge
The1960s were the high-water mark of design keels’. All I can imagine is that this
journalist had had to buy his own lunch.
excellence... and marketing hyperbole To trace the origins of this unpatriotic
malaise, I leafed through later editions of
this fine annual tome into the 1970s, and
was amazed to see no mention of the 18ft

I’
ve been reading again, and it’s been quote: ‘Twin hydrafoil [sic] bilge keels and Sailfish’s famed ‘six-berth accommodation,’
an education. And what I’ve learned large skeg give her a remarkably high – admittedly people were shorter then – or
is that the 1960s represented both performance.’ Wow! indeed of the Sailfish whatsoever.
the peak of sailing yacht development This spearhead of revolution was the What I did notice, however, was that
and civilisation in general. Of epoch-making turtle-backed Westerly 22, boats produced by the manufacturers
course, that was only a few years after pioneer of GRP mass production. It was who advertised were all uniformly
Tom Cunliffe had invented sailing, and amazing to be alive back then because all attractive, lively, fast, dry, stable,
long before ‘Brexin’, but there’s no doubt the boats reviewed seakindly,
boat design has gone backwards ever possessed amazingly
since. I discovered these amazing qualities today’s
Terylene, developed for roomy, capable
revelations in a box of sailing annuals I owners can only travelling salesmen’s jackets, of crossing
found at a boat jumble. dream of. Every oceans, and
It’s hard to believe what was going on in one of them was migrated into sail cloth built to last
1964, but it shows just how far we’ve attractive, lively, forever. And
regressed since. I quote from a boat fast, dry, stable, amazingly roomy, capable it’s only now, thanks to a free and
review: ‘Deck and cabin top are a one of crossing oceans, and, in the case of independent press, that I can at least
piece moulding and deck-head leaks just GRP ones, built to last forever – there was reveal the key innovation of 1971 that
cannot occur.’ Amazing! That sounds like no need for warranties. set the Sailfish apart and scared rivals,
the Holy Grail of all modern boat owners, But there was more going on. Terylene, namely the inclusion of a fitted polythene
but the industry had to stifle such which had been developed so that washing-up bowl as standard. You have
innovation as it would have threatened the travelling salesmen’s jackets didn’t crease a right to know.
sealant business that makes up the major or bend when hung in their Ford Consuls,
part of today’s global marine industry. migrated into sail cloth. The development LISTEN ONLINE
These days we all wonder at the of non-breathing nylon, invented for
high-tech antics of The America’s Cup, encyclopaedia salesmen’s shirts, was Hear Dave Selby’s podcasts on
but the subject of this 1964 review was funded by the male-grooming industry the PBO website www.pbo.co.uk
light years ahead of the game. Again I which simultaneously produced the most

14 Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk


Clipper Wireless & Tactical Wind systems
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Clipper Tactical wind is


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Sam Llewellyn Sam Llewellyn is editor of The Marine Quarterly,
Flotsam and jetsam www.marinequarterly.com, and author of nautical thrillers.
Three years ago he bought a Corribee on eBay

Ascent of Man
steel on the Clyde, and GRP everywhere.
Finally, at the pinnacle of boatbuilding
evolution, PBO arrived on the scene.
A month ago, inspired by the advice in
the richly informative pages of this organ,
Forget your Silicon Valley, steam railway or the I added to the personal fleet an ancient
plastic ketch we found slumped under
wheel – it was boatbuilding and the humble brambles in the corner of a boatyard.
Hauling five toolboxes and an inverter on
hammer that kickstarted technology board, we commenced restoration.
We are doing nicely so far. For the

B
engine there is a variety of spanners,
ack in the beginning was depressingly long. So someone chipped socket, ring, adjustable, and tube. We
the hammer. It was a bit of the hammer to a point, and rotated it are using many stainless screws, and
stick to which a lump of stone instead of banging it, and bingo, a drill. we drill holes for them with something
had been lashed with animal The sky was now just about the limit. electric, and screw in the screws with
sinews. Stone Age Man used it Large boats came into being, built from something else electric, in a manner that
to knock down trees. Then he used it to planks riven by a kind of sharp hammer would have astonished the cog builders
conk animals on the head, and collect without a handle called a wedge, and of Stettin, let alone the sinew-binders of
more sinews, which he employed to bind smoothed by axes with blades rotated the Stone Hammer age.
the trees together. He then dragged the through ninety degrees, called adzes. The carpentry will be largely power-
whole lot into the sea and set off on slow No longer did you have to sit on a raft assisted. When it comes to paint and
and perilous voyages of discovery. made of tree trunks varnish, we will be
After a while he realised that if you and gristle, feeling using electric
knocked some chips off the stone end of that you perhaps Gadgetry became ever sanders –
the hammer it could be persuaded to cut looked less more ingenious. Tool disc, belt and detail
things, and become an axe. impressive than – and keeping the
This spelled an end to the often you felt. Now you development pushed boat dust out of our
unsuccessful process of felling mighty could sail the two
oaks by hitting their trunks hard, and led seas in something
development and vice versa lungs with a rich
variety of
to the discovery that if you made the front relatively sleek. medically-
end of the trunks pointed, it helped them Further tools evolved, and with them approved masks and respirators.
travel through the water. discovery, increasing the number of seas We will apply the various gunks with
to seven. With new tools came new kinds rollers, foam brushes, regular brushes,
The sky’s the limit of boat – Viking double enders, tubby sprayers and forced labour.
Discovery now speeded up. The pressure cogs, the cod’s-head-and-mackerel-tailed Rig tension? There is a meter for that,
on wildlife caused by the increased flyers built by Matthew Baker for Francis and for just about everything else. The
demand for sinews led to the invention of Drake and his heavy friends. toolboxes, in short, contain a state-of-the-
string. But string tended to rot, so someone Iron nails proliferated, so hammers art DIY inventory, and every single item in
discovered that if you found a knothole in survived; but gadgetry became ever more them is used.
the wood and banged in a stick to connect ingenious. Tool development pushed boat
it with another knothole, you had development and vice versa. And before Frontier mentality
something called a trenail. But the odds you could say draw-knife, here came We are pushing some tool frontiers of our
against two knotholes aligning were William Fife and other poets in timber, and own. There is the domestic ladder we put
up to the mizzen jumper struts when it
was time to reconnect the triatic, and the
dodgy mainsail on which we recline for
the after-lunch snooze.
Apart from this fine tuning, though, the
restoration represents the apex of boat
tool history. We have risen far beyond
primitive implements such as hammers...
What do you mean, the propeller won’t
go round? There’s a rope cutter? Which is
seized? Jam some grease into the grease
nipple. No good? Blowlamp, then. Heat
gun. WD40. Still no good? Big Stilsons?
Puller? Whaddayamean, hammer? All
right, all right. I think there’s one down at
the bottom of the box. Give it a welt. There
it goes!
Swede Olaus Magnus’s 1555 depiction of boats being built Like I said. In the beginning was
using tree roots, sinews, an axe and – no doubt – a hammer the hammer.

16 Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk


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Andrew Simpson Yacht surveyor and designer Andrew Simpson cruises
Monthly musings with his wife Chele in his own-design 11.9m (39ft) yacht
Shindig. Read his blog at www.offshore-sailor.com

The voyage started encouragingly. We


Even racing yachts can struggle to
make way when breeze is lacking departed Galveston and for the first
couple of days threaded our way through
the inevitable shrimp boats and oil rigs,
there to sail into what was to develop into
a persistent calm. It took 12 days to reach
Key West; tantalised by the occasional
puff that would gain us a few miles.
In our search for wind we courted every
cloud or rainstorm that might have some
under it. We were conscious of the anxiety
that must be rising among friends and
family back in Texas, not least my mother
who was to bring the children out to us.
Given a competent crew and a sprightly
boat, the expectation was that the Gulf
crossing would take no more than a week!
Just over a decade later found us in the
Mediterranean – more specifically in
Mallorca participating in a Classic Boat
Rally, one of the features of which
included a race around Palma Bay. We

The rough
were crewing with the owner aboard his
Laurent-Giles designed cutter Fairlight,
built in 1938. We made a poor start but, in
very light conditions, we managed to claw
our way through the fleet only to have the

or the smooth? race officially abandoned as the sea


subsided from a light chop to mirror glass.
Light winds are great levellers.
The photo here is of Poole Bay, shortly
Battered or becalmed... a complete lack of after the start of a race. The boat in the
foreground is Hope and Glory, a 50-foot
weather can be just as bad as too much Ron Holland design and certainly no
slouch around the cans. With very little
energy to be harvested from such tranquil
conditions her size and weight are a

A
sk most cruising sailors 40, from Texas to the Leeward Islands. handicap, calling on great skill to wring
what their most challenging Designed by Bill Lapworth in the early whatever propulsion could be gained.
experience has been and 1960s, with a keen eye towards You’ve probably observed that there’s a
they’re likely to describe a performance, we couldn’t have asked for total of five boats in the shot. Note further
brush with ugly weather: a more suitable boat for the passage. that although Hope and Glory’s spinnaker
“Struggling to claw our way around Except that is for a couple of minor flaws: isn’t drawing as lustily as it might, it’s
Portland Bill against a westerly six and the sails were tired beyond redemption doing rather better than the others and
a foul tide.” You know the sort of tale; and the four-cylinder petrol engine had there’s even a feeble wake.
dramatic in content and designed to convinced itself that it was unseemly It’s my belief that the greatest and most
elicit both awe and sympathy from the to run for more intriguing crew
audience – particularly non-sailors. than a few Robust weather can make for challenges arise
And, yes, of course we have all probably minutes before when the wind is
experienced it. There are few cruising overheating. bruising passages – but the light – not when
sailors that haven’t confronted such We opted for a absence of wind can be worse there’s an excess
challenges – sometimes capitulating and simple passage of it. Yet you
slipping into some cosy anchorage, there strategy. It was late October – the tail end rarely hear tales of how people cope with
to wait for better times. of the hurricane season with the paucity rather than plenty. I once met a
This is the heroic stuff, of course. But meteorological risks reducing. The pilot man who in decreasing strengths had
sometimes quite the opposite conditions chart for that month indicated prevailing spent 60-odd days (he’d lost count!)
can pose frustrating challenges. Yes, easterly and north-easterly winds of no sailing a 20-odd-footer from Bermuda to
robust weather can make for bruising great hostility, and the dodgy engine was the Azores. With food and water having
passages but I’ve come to believe that the a powerful discouragement from marina run out, he survived by eating the goose
absence of wind can be worse. Back in hopping around the coast. We therefore barnacles encrusting his hull.
1978, in company with friends Bruce and decided to sail directly from Galveston to I’m not entirely sure about the wisdom of
Martha, Chele and I were delivering The Florida Keys – nearly 800NM in a his decision but it beats my own wind-
Vaquero, Chele’s somewhat elderly Cal generally south-easterly direction. starved whingeing into a cocked hat.

18 Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk


BOATS

A French
revolution

Peter K Poland rates some of the 34-36ft yachts made since the
1980s by Beneteau and Jeanneau Ð two of the Ôbig fourÕ manufacturers

Y
achts between 34ft and 36ft competition hotted up and – slowly and racer – in this case a ¾-Tonner. With fine
have long been popular with sadly – the British builders fell by the ends and a beam of 3.7m (12ft 2in) situated
cruising and racing sailors wayside. The modern volume production amidships, good windward performance is
alike. Many production boats methods of their continental competitors assured. The forepeak is used for stowage
of this size achieve a magic left them wallowing in their wake. with the heads compartment immediately
mix, combining ample space and comfort These builders – both British and aft. The saloon features settee berths and
for family cruising, ease of single- or continental – featured in earlier articles in an outboard pilot berth (to port) while a
short-handed sailing and the ability to go this series on 34- to 36-footers. However, galley and forward-facing chart table live
offshore in comfort with moderate there were four deliberate and major by the companionway. Two separate and
purchase and running costs. omissions – Bavaria, Beneteau, Hanse and enclosed quarter berths (‘friendly doubles’
Those who also want ‘big boat sailing’ Jeanneau. Why? Because these four at a pinch) lurk under the cockpit.
often charter a 40- to 50-footer once a builders have outlived most volume Again typical of the era, the masthead rig
year, letting someone else pay to moor it, production competitors – making major features a small main and a large genoa.
maintain it and pick up the big bills. contributions to the demise of many in the The slender IOR keel gives a draught of 6ft
In the old days, 34- to 36-footers were process – and dominate the market. The 3in and a healthy ballast ratio (by modern
thought of as large yachts. However, as ‘big four’s’ relentless expansion and drive standards) of 46%, while a DLR of 195 and
British brands Westerly, Snapdragon, towards ever-bigger yachts has taken them SA/displacement ratio of 18.6 indicate
Macwester, Sadler, Moody and others to 60-footers and beyond. The times they good performance.
prospered in the 1970s and 1980s, boats are a’changing. The First 35 is still an attractive package,
of this size became commonplace. They So, anyone looking for a brand-new 34- promising fast cruising and club racing
were the builders’ bread and butter, selling to 36-footer has little choice but to potential at a budget price. However, a luff
by the hundreds. Then the French, German investigate these brands – unless their insert in the genoa is needed to retain a
and Scandinavian yards expanded, funds stretch to a more expensive yacht good shape when reefed. The 35 is a
from a smaller yard. Indeed, a 34-footer prime example of how an IOR-influenced
ABOUT THE AUTHOR from one of the ‘big four’ now tends to be design still has a lot going for it.
near the bottom of the range, qualifying as Furthermore, many regard it as easier on
Peter K Poland crossed the a ‘starter boat’. the eye than today’s bulky and stubby-
Atlantic in a 7.6m (25ft) Wind ended offerings.
Elf in 1968 and later spent Immediate success The larger First 375 development of
30 years as co-owner
Beneteau’s first model of this size – the 1985 – also by Berret – has a more
of Hunter Boats. He
Berret-designed First 35 – hit the market contemporary layout down below, a higher
is now a freelance
journalist and in 1980 and was an immediate success. DLR of 208, a lower ballast ratio of 31.88%,
PR consultant Over 450 were built. Like many cruisers and is equally pretty.
of its generation, it evolved from an IOR The same can be said of Berret’s

20 Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk


34-36FT YACHTS

Evasion 36 (34ft 9in). This handsome


cruiser offers a deckhouse layout complete
with an extra helming position located in
the saloon with superb all-round visibility.

Different character
As the 1990s loomed, the Firsts began to
take on a different character. The
appearance of the Océanis range had led
to a clearer delineation between cruisers
and racers, so the Firsts became a bit more
‘racey’. The 1988 First 35S5 is a good
example. Complete with its unorthodox
Philippe Starck styling, this Berret design
has a very different look – both inside and
out. The wrap-over windows, sculpted
stern platform and ‘winglets’ on the keel
options make it stand out from the crowd
while its boldly styled interior follows the
now predictable norm of aft heads
compartment and double stern cabin. They

Sailing Scenes
built 430, proving that this ‘new look’
appealed to many.
The 1993 First 35S7 (34ft 7in) took the
next step into contemporary yacht design
Beneteau First 35
by adding a bulb to the keel and carrying
its substantial 12ft 6in beam well aft. So the winglets. A DLR of 181, SA/disp ratio of 16
boat offers twin double-berth aft cabins. and ballast ratio of 32% suggest steady
With its CG-lowering bulb on keel, the DLR rather than supercharged performance.
is 173 and the ballast ratio 32%. Then the Océanis models are designed for
slightly larger 1996 First 36S7 took these maximum cruising comfort – not for racing –
trends a little further. Slowly but surely, the so the generous beam (12ft 5in) and long
Sailing Scenes

Firsts were changing. roof offer space galore. Different versions


Jeanneau Sun By the time the 2000 Bruce Farr-designed are available with one or two stern cabins
Odyssey 36i First 36.7 arrived, the slender bulbed keel and heads compartments. The longitudinal
had got even deeper while the SA/disp galley (to port) has ample stowage and all
mod cons while the L-shaped settee
(starboard) wraps around a large table.
Beneteau First 375
The generations of Berret Océanis
cruisers that followed evolved in style but
shared similar qualities. The 351 (34ft 9in;
1994), 352 (35ft; 1997), 361 (36ft 5in;
2000), 343 (35ft 5in; 2005) come with
many options and are all capable and
comfortable. Those who like a centre
cockpit and a spacious stern cabin
should also consider the 36CC (1998). It
shares the First 36S7 hull so it sails faster
than its looks might suggest. It could
make a great ‘liveaboard’ yacht.

Dramatic changes
Sailing Scenes

In 2008, Beneteau switched to Finot-Conq


for the smaller Océanis designs and to
Nauta for their interiors. The resulting
changes were dramatic.
First 345 (DLR 182, Ballast Ratio 45%), ratio rose to 19.28 and the ballast ratio The 2008 Oceanis 34 (33ft 11in) has a
of which 460 were built. went down to 29%. Then Farr’s 2008 First heavily bulbed keel, small-overlap genoa,
If you can find one, the cruisier 1983 35.2 went racier still, putting a large outboard-mounted chainplates, short
Idylle 1150 shares the First 35’s hull but T-shaped torpedo at the base of the keel. overhangs and 12ft beam carried well aft.
has a longer, shallower keel and a more In the meantime, the Océanis cruising American Cruising World magazine’s panel
luxurious interior. It gains a twin-berth brand was building up a head of steam. of readers voted it ‘Best Value Boat 2009’.
forecabin and a larger double stern cabin, Popular with charter operators and private In 15-25 knots of wind on the test day, CW
and the heads moves aft. It’s an elegant buyers alike, these models outsell the wrote: ‘This affordable performance
yacht with a lot to offer. sportier Firsts. The Briand-designed cruiser is a blast to sail, with details often
The slightly smaller Idylle 1050 (from Océanis 430 (43ft) and 350 (33ft 10in) lacking on more expensive boats.’
1985), designed by André Beneteau, has a launched the range in 1986 while the 1990 Then – following on from their award-
similar character and ‘look’. Not many Océanis 370 (35ft 8in) was the first in the winning 2013 Oceanis 38 – Finot-Conq and
Idylles were imported, but these models popular 34 to 36ft size band. Nauta introduced more major new features
have a definite appeal. Unlike a First, this model offers a long fin that are now shared by the rest of the
Equally rare is the Briand-designed 1990 keel or a shallower option with CG-lowering range, including the new 35ft Océanis. Twin

Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk 21


boats
The dark-hulled Beneteau
Océanis 361 Wave Whisperer
Jeanneau Sun Fast 35
taking part in this year’s Round
the Island Race
Sailing Scenes

rudders and wheels, wide beam, help and advice provided by UK dealer
mainsheet arch, chined hull, heavily bulbed Ancasta has been terrific – replacing thin jib
keel and near-vertical bow and stern add sheets and rectifying minor blemishes to
up to a striking new look. Different interior saloon table and boom.’
layouts also offer the buyer a wide choice.
American Sail magazine wrote: ‘Sailing Spacious and airy
on Chesapeake Bay in 15-20 knots true Sister-company Jeanneau was acquired by
wind with apparent gusts to 35, we hit a top Beneteau in 1995, having traded since
speed of 7 knots sailing on a close reach to 1956. With the exception of the famous Gin
a beam reach with a partially furled Fizz 37 and Sun Fizz 40, it majored on
mainsail. We maintained 6.8 knots smaller yachts until the Espace 1000 (34ft
close-hauled at a 40° apparent wind angle, 11in) appeared in 1980. This spacious
and when we pinched to 35° our speed Briand-designed deck saloon cruiser (with
dropped to 5.4 knots. cockpit and internal steering positions for
‘The helm was extremely stable, thanks to all-weather sailing) comes with a lifting or
the twin rudders... Thanks to the fin keel. A DLR of 237 suggests
pronounced hull chine, form stability was comfortable cruising performance,
excellent, and even in the robust conditions confirmed by Bob Mullins, whose Espace
we experienced, heeling was moderate.’ has been in his family
since 1983.
Sailing Scenes

A perfect fit He says she ‘sails well


Don MacKenzie bought his Océanis 35.1 for a motor-sailer. I have
(34ft 3in, including sprit) at the 2016 replaced the original
Southampton Boat Show, and told me: mainsail and will soon fashion of basing cruisers
‘We bought it because we were retiring take delivery of a new on top race boats. The
from our dental practice and had funds to furling genoa. I’m Sun Shine 36 (36ft 5in)
upgrade from our previous boat – a expecting the previous stems from a Tony Castro
MacGregor 26 power-sailer. Quite a jump! 100° tacking angle to One Tonner and is a good
‘We wanted a boat to satisfy specific improve [which it will!]. all-rounder. Its DLR of 183,
requirements, which were: under 10.5m Off the wind, she is SA/disp ratio of 18.8,
length to fit on the mooring, three cabins good.’ ballast ratio of 41% and
so we could take the family, a lifting keel for Bob adds: ‘The fine ends give excellent
Solent anchorages, in-mast reefing, a bow accommodation is performance – yet there’s
thruster and power winch. Realising we spacious and airy with enough space aft to fit in
wouldn’t find all this on a second-hand lots of windows and light. two stern cabins.
boat, we splashed out on a new one.’ When we’re entertaining Generous galley and
Don enjoys the boat’s spaciousness. people have been navigation area, saloon
Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 349
‘For 35ft, the accommodation is impressed by how wide settees and pilot berths, a
spectacular. All the berths are large and the saloon is. Not having two aft cabins forward heads and forepeak berth
comfortable, including the forepeak, which means that the saloon isn’t so far forward. complete the picture. It’s a great seagoing
has room for me – 6ft 3in – to lie full stretch. This also allows for two huge cockpit layout and – combined with the 36’s
And the quality of workmanship and level lockers, so storage isn’t a problem.’ performance and elegant looks – makes
of finish are exceptional. He also loves the deck saloon, saying: this boat an attractive package. More than
‘Generally, we are thrilled with this boat. ‘The inside steering position is wonderful 700 were sold, and French magazine
The quality of the build has been remarked for Scottish sailing weather’. Bateaux summed it up by saying it is ‘one
on by everybody, as has the level of quality Of course, the boat’s getting on now, and of the best performing and most enjoyable
fittings. Due to the wide beam, the amount Bob says: ‘The foam-backed lining has of its type; recommended to those keen on
of space below is fantastic with a greater crumbled and is part replaced. There has a lively sailing boat rather than to those
sense of space than in older boats of this been a leak where the babystay goes looking for a placid cruiser’.
length. She is easy to handle despite being through the foredeck that caused water
very beamy, although I suspect close- damage/rot in the forward bulkhead where Sailing reputation
quarter manoeuvring would be challenging the tang is secured. This was replaced.’ The 1984 Fauroux-designed Sun Shine 34
without the bow thruster, because with twin All the same, not a lot of grief for a (34ft 6in) was an equally successful
rudders there’s no prop wash. 37-year-old boat. IOR-derived cruiser: well over 600 were
‘In addition, the level of pre-and post-sale In 1982, Jeanneau followed Beneteau’s sold in less than six years. One was even

22 Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk


34-36ft yachts

Sailing Scenes
sailed solo around the world by Michael Thomsen keeps his SF36 in years flying a rod rig with quite high tension
Frenchman Alain Maignan. Available with Flensburg, and says: ‘Being an active sailor there is no flexing in the hull and no soft
a fin or centreplate keel, the Sun Shine with a not-so-active wife and twin girls aged spots in her sandwich deck. You have a
has an excellent sailing reputation, and – six, I was in the market for a boat that very solid yet fast boat: a cruiser/racer in
like most Jeanneaus of this era – the provided some comfort below decks while the truest sense.’
wood finish below gives a relaxing feel to at the same time offering at least club
its ‘aft heads plus stern cabin’ layout. racing capabilities. Also, the boat had to be Sprightly performance
Definitely one to consider. seaworthy enough for a single-handed Marc Lombard (another famous race boat
The 1988 Andrieu-designed Sun Dance Atlantic crossing – a plan for the future. designer) came up with the smaller but
36 followed on. It differs from the earlier ‘She’s solid, fast, reliable, comfortable similar Sun Fast 35 (35ft 3in) in 2004.
Sun Shine 36, offering twin stern cabins and has excellent cockpit ergonomics With wide beam (11ft 9in), a DLR of 167,
and aft heads compartments and a large suitable for short-handed sailing. Although SA/disp ratio of 17.36, bulb keel and
U-shaped settee facing a linear galley to more than 20 years old, she still looks hot. ballast ratio of 26%, the 35 offers an
port. Its 27hp Yanmar provides adequate She’s excellent value for money as even excellent mix of a comfortable teak-
power under engine while its ballast ratio of her standard spec is very comprehensive trimmed interior (two or three cabins) and
34% follows the downward trend. and the build quality is superb! sprightly performance. In short, ideal for
Then in 1990 it was renamed the Sun ‘OK, the interior maybe is not as fine-lined the owner looking for stimulating sailing in
Odyssey 36 as Jeanneau introduced a new as a Hallberg or Comfortina – but after 20 a boat capable of performing well in club
‘Twin Range’ marketing policy. races and coastal cruising.
While Beneteau introduced its For those looking for a more
Océanis range of pure cruisers later cruisey alternative, the Sun
than its sporty Firsts, Jeanneau did Odyssey 35 shares similar lines but
the opposite by introducing its Sun also offers a lift keel and twin
Fast range later than its cruisers. rudder option. Andy Cox bought a
The 1994 Sun Fast 36 2006 SO35 in 2016, telling me he
(perversely, a smidge over 37ft went for the lifting-keeler because
LOA) was the first ‘36-footer’ in the ‘for the type of sailing we do, based
range. Designed by Briand, this in Chichester Harbour, a lift keel
handsome cruiser-racer has two- with the option of drying out –
and three-cabin options, a tasteful thanks to the twin rudders – is what
interior plus a shoal or deep draught it’s all about. They sail OK and can
bulbed keel to lower the CG. Beneteau OcŽanis 35 dry out at the end of the beer

Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk 23


boats

The Sun Fast 36 is one of


the prettiest and fastest
Jeanneaus built. And the
accommodation is excellent

Sailing Scenes
Jeanneau Sun Odyssey

garden in places like Tuckenhay on the


River Dart and Wareham in Poole harbour!’
When I asked what appealed most, Andy
replied: ‘Overall looks – friends comment
on how nice she looks down below –
reasonable build quality and simplicity of
use at an affordable price.
‘She won’t win any races, but she was
not bought for that.
‘We have the two-cabin “Owner” version
but started out looking at the three-cabin
version. However, the extra stowage
offered by the lazarette, accessed through
the shower, and the inclusion of a
reasonably large hanging locker in the
cabin swayed us away from the extra
accommodation on offer.

Graham Snook
Built to a price
‘I’d love a Southerly, but one of a similar
age and length would be twice the price
– though to be fair the Jeanneau is
deliberately built to a price to make it old school, so it gets used a lot! David Kramer sails his shoal-draught SO36i
affordable for many more people, not to a ‘The big deal for us is that she’s 10.7m in the USA, and told me he did the famous
premium specification.’ long and draws less than a metre... which Baja Ha-Ha this year.
And what about performance and is of course why we bought her!’ ‘It’s a two-week cruiser rally from San
handling with twin rudders and shoal keel? Diego to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico; about
Andy said: ‘We took her round the Channel Sleek and capable 900NM in each direction,’ he said. ‘The
Islands by way of a shakedown cruise this The 2008 Lombard-designed Sun weather was a little rough at times, but the
summer, and she performed well’. He’s Odyssey 36i has also been a success. boat handled it all beautifully.’
nows planning a 2018 cruise to the Med via With a bulbed keel (deep or shoal), it has a His few niggles include ‘poor-quality
the canals, returning via the Bay of Biscay. DLR of 166 and ballast ratio of 27.5%. seacocks that many owners have replaced,
‘As long as you reef early there is no Its beam of 11ft 9in is carried well aft, a gap at the top of the rudder that catches
problem. She does not point as well as a and there’s space for one or two stern kelp, and poor insulation around the fridge
fin- or long-keeler, but the compromise is cabins and a comfortable accommodation and compressor [that he has rectified].’
fine for non-racers like us. Coming from our layout. It’s a sleek-looking and capable And his conclusion? ‘I’ve learned to reef
old boat – a Jouet 760 which was also a lift modern cruiser. my shoal-draught boat early and sail it
keel, and thoroughly recommended as a Marcus North bought his new shoal- within its capabilities. In turn it treats us
pocket cruiser – she seems so solid in a draught 36i in 2009 because he well and the performance is fine on most
blow. We think we’re spoilt in comparison! ‘particularly liked the layout below and the points of sail. I wouldn’t race it, for many
‘Close-quarters handling in marinas in a large heads with separate shower: we use reasons; one of which is that it doesn’t
blow, though, does perhaps require more the boat for holiday and weekend point well because it’s shoal-draught. On
planning and thought than a boat with a accommodation as well as sailing it. the whole, we love our boat. It continues
rudder in-line with the prop’. ‘The boat also sails very well, and is to give us great pleasure.’
On the maintenance front, Andy found easily managed by myself and my wife: Last but not least, if you’re in the market
that the disintegration of a small 90% or more of the sailing we do is just the for a brand-new Jeanneau, the Sun
component meant replacing the keel lifting two of us. The worst we’ve encountered is Odyssey 349 should be on your list. It
mechanism, and a faulty heat exchanger a Force 8, and it handled it very well.’ may be a smidge less than 34ft LOA, but its
on the Yanmar 3YM30 had to be swapped. Any niggles? Marcus said on his version contemporary design provides the space of
His succinct conclusion sums up the access to the large cockpit locker is via a far larger yacht: and with over 600 sold in
modern boat buying well: ‘There are a door in the shower, so the deflated less than four years, it’s a runaway success.
things on the boat we don’t like, but you dinghy won’t get through – and the water And what about the Germans? After all,
are going to have to compromise on a tank position in the forepeak prevents the main competition for Beneteau and
mass-produced boat at this price point. installing a bow thruster. Jeanneau now comes from Bavaria and
Conversely there are things that we love, ‘But overall I’ve been very happy with my Hanse. Over the years they too have
like the large shower compartment and Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 36i and have no produced fleets of fine 34- to 36-footers.
the sliding, decent-sized chart table. I am plans to change it for another boat.’ But more on these next time.

24 Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk


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DRIVE AND BUY BEFORE
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resident in Mainland UK and N. Ireland. This credit offer is only available through Shogun Finance Ltd, 116 Cockfosters Rd, Barnet, EN4 0DY. Shogun Finance Ltd is part of Lloyds Banking Group. Offer is subject to availability, whilst stocks
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representative PCP finance when test drive is taken and vehicle registered between 1st October and 16th December 2017. 3. On The Road prices range from £32,645 to £43,305 and include VAT (at 20%), VED and First Registration Fee. Metallic
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practical

Installing Step
by

NASA Clipper step

instruments
Tony Davies installs
depth, speed and
compass instruments

T
he depth sounder and speed
log are two of the most
fundamental instruments
that any boat with seagoing
pretensions should have.
They’re not difficult to install providing
care is taken and it’s remembered that at
least one of them will require making a
hole in the bottom of the boat – not
something that’s to be undertaken lightly!
The NASA Clipper range is equal in
appearance to anything on the market Time Taken: 2 Days
and with extremely competitive prices. Skill Level: Intermediate –
And a phone call to the company will you’ll need the confidence to
always result in a conversation with a make a hole in the boat!
human being – something that is
Tools Required: drill, bits, hole saw,
becoming increasingly rare.
jigsaw, screwdrivers, hammer,
Here we’re fitting depth, speed and
wire cutter, crimp tool.
compass instruments to a classic Coronet
21 motorboat, which had never been fitted Prices:
with permanently-installed depth and Clipper Compass: £194.76
speed instruments before as had it spent Clipper Depth: £139.96
much of its life on a river. It was an ideal Clipper Log: £139.96
candidate for an instrumental make-over
including the Clipper electronic compass!

Mounting the instruments

W
hile every installation is The helm Above the
different – and this one is
1 position in
2 engine
possibly more involved than standard trim instruments
many – it nevertheless gives a good – you can see seemed the
indication of the points to consider. the navigational most obvious
A back-up is always a good idea, magnetic place for the
so when we removed the existing compass on the new displays.
magnetic compass we re-mounted cabin top above But on second
it on the other side of the cockpit. the console. thoughts...

... they With the Mounting


3 were
4 position
5 brackets
maybe too finalised the were removed
close to the next step was to from the back so
helm. Further design and the instruments
forward on the make a simple could be set
cabin top was a plywood out on the panel
much better console to to decide the
option. mount them in. best layout.

26 Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk


installing nasa clipper instruments

The width
6 of the
Fitting the
transducers
mounting Warning:
apertures was
next carefully do not cut or shorten
marked onto any transducer cables
the front panel. unless the instructions
specifically say you
can do so!

Time for the old magnetic compass The distance between the instruments was decided and the apertures marked and
7 to beat a hasty retreat to make way
8 cut out with a jigsaw. When the instruments were temporarily positioned it became
for the new console. obvious the panel was far longer than necessary and would need shortening

With side panels of our ‘on the fly’ Properly cut to size, the whole thing After a coat of Burgess Wood Sealer
9 design fitted, the pod could be
10 could then be glued and screwed
11 to seal the ply, it was covered in
offered up to work out the optimum together. With glue dry it was sanded to white vinyl leather-cloth stapled on to
position and angle on the cabin top. remove the rough edges. match the rest of the instrument panel.

NASA recommends testing before The rubber seals could now be fitted Due to the compact nature of our
12 fitting so a temporary connection
13 into the recesses on the rear of the
14 new console the stainless steel fixing
was made to ensure the instruments were instrument housings where they’d sit brackets had to be modified by shortening
working as they should. against the new console. and reforming the bends.

Secured finger tight by wing nuts, The neat-looking console was then The standard echo sounder
15 basic connections were made for
16 placed in position ready for the final
17 transducer was to be connected
sounder and compass warning buzzers. connections to be made. first. See below for tips on where to site it.

WHErE TO SiTE a TranSDUCEr a suitable position in the bilges must consider the instrument performance as well as
running of the wiring. it’s always best to position transducers well aft, especially on fast boats where the bow has a tendency
to leave the water regularly. the area must also be clear of obstructions such as keels that can disturb water flow. ➜

Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk 27


practical

Echo sounder and speed log transducers

E
cho sounder transducers can be fitted in different ways. Best performance is Find a
with through-hull mounting but this obviously involves drilling a hole in the
1 suitably clear
hull. With a speed log impeller you’ve no option but to do this. area under the
Another sounder choice is to glue in a plastic tube which is filled with castor oil and hull and measure
the transducer fitted with its face in the oil. There’s no hull hole and the transducer its position inside.
is easily removed, but oil can seep through an imperfect bond and there’s a loss of Abrade the area
signal strength through the fabric of the hull (though for most this is rarely an issue). with glass paper
The most common method nowadays is to stick the transducer directly to the and wash with
inside of the hull using car body filler. Again, there’s no hole in the hull but there acetone to ensure
is the same loss of performance and it is difficult to remove the transducer. a good bond.

I don’t like to rely just on body filler The transducer and bracket was Fixing holes were drilled into the
2 to secure the transducer so I made a
3 then offered up and the bracket’s
4 stringer so the bracket could be
simple ply bracket to hold the top end. position marked on the adjacent stringer. screwed into place accurately when ready.

The body
5 filler was
mixed up
according to
the maker’s
instructions
and a large
dollop was
trowelled onto
the abraded Body filler can start to harden fairly The transducer was slipped into the
and cleaned
6 quickly, so without hanging about
7 bracket and the face properly
spot in the the bracket (previously coated with wood immersed into the filler with a twisting
bilge. sealer) was screwed into place. motion to help expel air bubbles.

Having
10 checked
under the hull that
the pilot hole was
indeed in the right
place, a hole saw
of appropriate
diameter was used.
Dust was then
As the filler began to cure I tidied it Having double-checked the position vacuumed out and
8 up using a spatula to scrape off the
9 of the speed log paddle wheel the area cleaned
excess. I then left it alone to fully cure. transducer, a pilot hole could be drilled. with acetone.

A generous bead of silicone sealer A similarly generous bead was also The fitting is placed through the hull
11 was applied around the flange of the
12 run into the groove of the interior
13 from the outside, the nut is run down
exterior fitting. securing nut. the thread and then gently tightened.

28 Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk


installing nasa clipper instruments

Belt and braces, compass and wiring up


NASA recommends strengthening the speed transducer installation by also glassing it into position, the reckoning being that if
the outer flange is torn off through a grounding or any other reason then the inner section will remain in place and watertight. It’s
not essential to do this – but seems very sensible.

Temporarily
1 fit the paddle
wheel assembly,
note how far down
the thread the nut
goes, then remove
and mask off more
than enough
thread to ensure
it’s kept clean
while you’re Cut thin strips of glass cloth then wet
glassing in the
2 them out by stippling resin into them
lower section. until the glass appears semi-translucent.

Wet out the area around the fitting, The strips of saturated cloth are now Stipple to remove air from the glass
3 avoiding the masking but ensuring
4 wrapped around the fitting, again
5 cloth as it is built up. I used two
you cover the lower part of the tube. keeping clear of the masked area. layers of bi-axial cloth for this job.

For the
7 compass
sensor a simple
ply shelf was
bonded into a
magnet-free
area beneath
the port bunk.
There’s plenty
of adjustment
Having some resin left over it on the sensor The wiring between the instruments,
6 seemed sensible to repeat the for final
8 transducers and power supply could
process with the echo sounder transducer. alignment later. now be run through the boat.

The final connections can now be A single feed was used for all the Power was switched on and
9 made to the back of the console unit
10 instruments in the console as the
11 everything worked correctly. We even
before it’s secured in place. power draw is very low. managed to get up to 16 knots in the shed!

A log and echo sounder are essential on a cruising boat and an electronic compass with all its benefits an added bonus. The
NASA Clipper range will do everything that’s required and shouldn’t break the bank either. Installation is pretty easy and if you
have spare space on your existing instrument panel and don’t have to make a new console the job can be fairly quick.

Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk 29


cruising

sail training on a
Thames Barge
Sam Llewellyn goes aboard Thames Barge Reminder to see how
sailing the old-fashioned way can change people's lives back on land

W
e do most of our sailing in crowd of curlews. And alongside Hythe for today) Reminder.
the great unpeopled sea Quay lie the barges, gigantic, tied up two Once, Thames barges were the heavy
reaches of the West Coast of and three deep. lorries of the East Coast. These days they
Scotland, so we tend to These are not boring old Dutch barges, survive through chartering. Reminder is no
approach Essex weighed down with with wheelhouses and the skipper’s exception; but this is a charter with a
telly-led preconceptions of girls with rococo Daihatsu on davits on the after deck. difference. Adult cash customers sail her
nail jobs and lads on the run from the law These are proper spritsail barges, around at weekends. On weekdays she is on
after a little contretemps with a cash 100ft long, displacing some 100 tons, charter to the Sea-Change Sailing Trust,
machine, a roundabout and some pills. crammed together in the muddy creek like brainchild of the lifelong sailor and (since
So the town of Maldon comes as a bit of whale-sized sardines in a gigantic tin. 1994) full-time bargeman Richard
a shock. There is a charming High Street Their masts and sprits scratch the Titchener and his partner, Hilary Halajko.
crowded with jettied buildings. Down the drifting Essex clouds. They have beautiful It is the top of the tide, and time to get
hill past the deeply eccentric church tower champagne-glass sterns, names in gold: Reminder down the creek and out into the
are Hythe Quay, the River Chelmer and a Kitty, Xylonite, Hydrogen, and (our target Blackwater. The barge ahead sets off, a

30 Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk


Sail training on a thameS barge

Thames sailing barge


Reminder heads out
into the Blackwater

Hydrogen, one of the Thames barges based at Maldon

Hilary explains the


anchor windlass to one
of the novice crew

rather constrained group round her wheel week-long sailing trips in the barging together with Richard the skipper, Hilary
(MCA surveyor on board, says Richard waters of the East Coast, the intricate the mate, and Jack the third hand. With
out of the side of his mouth). Yachty network of rivers and creeks, banks and bigger groups they run a watch system,
smarm is not in evidence. The engines of swales between Suffolk and Kent. ensuring that everyone gets an
the barges on the outside of the raft fart The Trust works with children and opportunity to learn every job and nobody
diesel smoke, and the great beasts slide adults – everyone from eight-year-olds ends up doing either only popular or
into the middle of the creek and hang from St Joseph’s College in Ipswich unpopular work. In their heyday, barges
there, waiting for us to go. through to an older generation with were sailed by a man and a boy (or
Dementia Adventure, a charity dedicated according to Hilary a man and a woman –
Setting sail to improving the quality of life of people partners, like her and Richard, in life as
Reminder is sailing off her berth. We are with dementia. The success stories are well as work).
up by the mast, letting go brails – on a as heartwarming as they are remarkable. Many trainees started coming as part of
barge, the mainsail is not hoisted and There are four teenage crew on this trip, a group and return as individuals,
lowered, but brailed against the huge steel financed, if they cannot afford the fees
mast with top, lower and main brails. The themselves, by bursaries from the charity.
breeze is blowing down the creek, straight Unlike some other sail training
out to sea. organisations, Sea-Change stays in touch
We let out a fat russet bag of mainsail, with – and in some cases mentors – its
keeping some turns on the main brail’s trainees when they are ashore between
winch, because it is holding a sail that trips, so Sea-Change participants, some
looks roughly the size of a tennis court of whom come from very difficult home
and the pressure is mighty. circumstances, become part of a warm
She starts, she moves, she seems to feel and familiar extended family.
the thrill of life along her keel. The
helmsperson passes the fat spokes Gathering momentum
through her hands. We are moving. The We are moving fast now, down a coiling
quay slides by, and the mutter of the other brown lane of water past the municipal
barge engines fades as the huge hulls paddling pool and something that might
settle back into their berths. be a park. The crew are tidying up,
The Sea-Change Sailing Trust takes cheesing lines on the green tarpaulin
parties of people, many suffering from social It’s no picnic... teenage crew are expected hatch covers, sloshing the quayside grime
isolation or various kinds of exclusion, for to get stuck in aboard Reminder off the side decks. ➜

Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk 31


cruising
Charter vessel Reminder
– a fine example of a
Thames barge

Sam Llewellyn
earns his keep by
scurrying aloft

There is plenty to do on a barge. Richard


has thought long and hard about the
usefulness of sailing. Much British sail
training, he reckons, is splendidly
well-intentioned but takes place on boats
with so little to do that trainees spend most
of a voyage waiting for their turn to steer.
The barge is different. Working from stern
to bow, there is the mizzen, sheeted to the
rudder; the mainsheet on its horse; the
vangs (pronounced ‘wangs’) that
determine the position of the sprit; the
running backstays for mainmast and (more
importantly) the tall, slender topmast that
supports the enormous topsail; the
leeboards, controlled by huge chains
running to the crab winches on either side
of the wheel which have warping drums for
vangs and mainsheet in a breeze; the
mast, with its dizzying festoons of brail tails Barges galore at Hythe Quay in Maldon
and topsail sheets and God knows what
other miscellanea; the foresail, whose The Blackwater is opening out. The tide is warping drum. And away we go again.
sheet, like the mainsheet, runs on a horse ebbing hard, and down we go, keeping the On almost all barges, cargo space is
athwart the deck; and the anchor windlass, big reds to starboard. Ahead, the North now dedicated to the accommodation of
with its vast chain and a horizontal timber Sea trawler that found a sort of fame as charterers. This is not something that
drum as fat as a well-grown oak trunk. Radio Caroline lies anchored off the twin pleases Richard. Sea-Change is in the
Each of these elements demands tombs of the Sizewell nuclear power process of building its own barge, Blue
someone’s full attention, and many of them station. Combined with the line of beach Mermaid, a replica of a Blue Mermaid
bear loads measured in tons. huts on Mersea Island, this is not an launched 85 years ago at Mistley and
obviously romantic panorama, but blown up by a mine in the Second World
Quiet confidence Reminder makes it so, a great white beast War. The hull was launched last year at
The teenagers stand by, quietly confident. from a more spacious age. Down we run. Toms of Polruan and was towed to
Hilary reminds one of them that it might not There is a gybe. Everyone takes his or her Maldon, where she is currently fitting out
be a great idea to be standing forward of the position, no fuss. The mainsail and topsail under the hands of Jim Dines and his
foresail sheet horse when the sail bangs are both up, and the barge is surging down team at the Downs Road Boatyard.
over. Her voice is mild and sensible. There the wind. Up with the mizzen topping lift, She is an enormous vessel even by the
is no shouting in Sea-Change, and very because nobody needs a mizzen before standards of barges. The main difference
few orders. Richard and Hilary make quiet the wind. Stand by the running backstays. between her and her ancestor is that she is
suggestions, and the crew act on them, Over goes the helm. Control the sprit with welded from plates of laser-cut steel rather
and learn sailing and life skills by example. the vang, a turn or two on the crab winch than riveted. She is waiting for her rig – the

32 Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk


Sail training on a thameS barge

Welded plates and stringers of the Trust’s


new-build Thames barge Blue Mermaid
BELOW: Hilary Halajko and Richard
Titchener of the Sea-Change Sailing Trust
BELOW RIGHT: Mealtime aboard Reminder

Trust, a charity, has already raised half a anchor. Some skippers would start the Horn. The mast is only 40ft high, and I
million pounds and needs £180,000 more. donkey, jam the boat up head to wind, have a safety harness on, and the sea
Authenticity will be important. Her sails are give her a blast astern and drop the hook. makes millponds look rough. But as I
planned to be something special – woven Not Richard. He puts the helm down. beetle up the shrouds I am thinking, why
from linen with a selvedge instead of a hem The luff of the mainsail bulges aback, and the hell did I open my stupid mouth? And
at the Whitchurch Silk Mill with the help of the 100-odd tons drifts to a slow halt. when I get to the hounds, where the
Richard Humphries, Upper Bailiff of the Hilary and the anchor crew have made a shrouds are too close together to get a
Worshipful Company of Weavers. beautiful square flake of chain aft of the foot on to a ratline, and my spectacles are
But linen sails are by no means the windlass drum, with a turn on the drum. falling off, and it has taken five minutes to
whole of it. As we walk through the She drops. The chain roars out. A couple get the first turn of the gasket on to an
cavernous spaces of the raw hull, Richard of trainees put buckets of seawater over oil-drum-fat lump of unyielding canvas,
points out the sites of her future the drum to lubricate it. The barge drifts and the gasket itself is the only thing that
accommodation, and a huge void in her astern. The chain lifts from the sea, is keeping me suspended in mid-air, I
mid-section which will be the most straightens a moment, dripping, and sinks notice that the safety line is doing its bit as
authentic feature of them all: a cargo hold. again. The anchor is set. well. I look down and see that in charge of
Sea-Change trainees who sail on Blue the line is Dan. Dan is 15. He has a turn
Mermaid will not only work with a Time machine and half a figure eight on the cleat. He is
minimum of engine power, they will work Time moves at a peculiar speed when you in full control of the situation, because he
whatever cargoes Titchener can find up are living in a sailing machine built 100 has done it dozens of times before, the
and down the East Coast. The object of years ago. It is a surprise to see that the way Hilary and Richard have shown him.
sailing, he reckons, is to take people out sky over the land is already turning pink, And I find myself thinking that any
into the middle of nature. and to feel an evening chill in the breeze. combination of vessel and organization
His trainees do not use mobile phones, Smoke is fluttering out of the flue of the that will allow you to trust your life to a
because they interfere with the group saloon wood stove as we tally on to the 15-year-old stranger after six hours’
dynamic and the sense of here-and-now. brails for the mainsail. The topsail comes acquaintance must have something pretty
Similarly, engines can if overused make life down, and stays aloft, held to the topmast special going for it.
too easy. He will use them if absolutely by its rings. ‘We should put a gasket on But there is not too much time for
necessary – it is after all the 21st Century, that or it’ll go flap flap all night,’ says ponderings of that nature, because it’s
and there are schedules to be kept. But Richard. ‘Who wants to go?’ supper time, and everyone has to think of
on the whole he would rather not. So Blue The trainees are somewhere around 16 three things they’d take to a desert island,
Mermaid will carry her cargoes without an years old. Eight young eyes seem to be after which there is a passionate and
engine, and will rely on the traditional barge looking at me. I have been asking uproarious Sevens tournament. And so,
skills of towing, drudging and warping. questions all day. It is my turn to suffer. with minimum engine and maximum sailing
Meanwhile on Reminder it’s time to ‘All right,’ I say. This is not exactly Cape and manoeuvring and anchoring and
serious fun, the week roars on. Everyone
His trainees do not use mobile phones, on board will be back. Including me.

because they interfere with the group n Find out more and donate to
Sea-Change Sailing Trust at
dynamic and the sense of here-and-now www.seachangesailingtrust.org.uk

Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk 33


Practical projects Email your projects and tips to pbo@timeinc.com
Great ideas and tips from PBO readers or write to us at the address at the top of page 5.
We pay at least £30 for each one published

Blowing hot and cold


Keith Calton puts a shower facility in his wheelhouse

T
here I was, covered
in soap, shampoo
and shaving foam,
taking a leisurely shower in
a well-known south coast
marina and the water
stops, dead: no hot, no
cold... nothing.
A closer inspection of the
shower instructions (I was a
bit myopic) explained that
you only get six minutes
worth of water for your token,
mmmmm.
On with the towel and out D-shaped rail sits neatly under wheelhouse canopy
of the shower, across to the travellers to get in the way The forward pipe
reception area with a pound (that’s on the roof now) so clips are
coin in hand to get another siting the shower rails partially screwed through
token, wet sudsy footprints over the companionway and the head lining,
Conduit corner section
there and back to show my out into the cockpit where it and on my boat
path and a rather huffy could self-drain seemed the the aft clips 12-litre Hozelock ex-pesticide
reception person. best idea. locate near the rear lip of garden pressure sprayer
My boat, a Macwester I made a D-shape using the wheelhouse. which can give a decent
Wight at 10m, would have a 20mm electrical conduit with a To fit the shower frame to the shower with one full kettle of
shower and possibly Jacuzzi couple of corner sections as boat just slide the ring through hot water and the rest cold,
if built in the last 10 years but the basis, about 700mm wide the aft clips until you can pop but proper portable camping/
is sadly only equipped with a and about 930mm long, (you’ll the front cross tube in place. caravanning showers are
rather cramped heads. First need about 3m in total). It’s then all firmly located – you available from around £20
thoughts were of a shower Design it to suit your boat. A can put the shower rings and upwards. If you re-use an old
tray in the cabin but getting hot air gun judiciously played curtains on before or after this. pesticide pump, be sure to
the water out would entail a on the pipe while bending Having a fully canvassed clean it thoroughly (though if
pump and a rather damp around an object of suitable cockpit and using two nylon you don’t at least you won’t
interior so I decided the diameter (dustbin, chair etc.) shower curtains, one each suffer from greenfly…).
wheelhouse/cockpit would will give you your curved side, provides good privacy. You can make all of this with
be the best bet. D-section, but be careful as it’s You can walk in from the hand tools, though a band
I re-made the wheelhouse easy to get it too hot and cabin, shower, dry off and saw and sander will help and
about 12 years ago so there scorch it (you might want to walk back into the cabin a hot air gun is useful.
was nothing like mainsail practise first). without having to step outside. All tubes, clips and lengths
And at the same time the of rectangular PVC are
self-draining cockpit gets a available from DIY/Hardware
much-needed wash too! stores, different makes have
COST
£20
A good tip is to trim your different tolerances which can
curtain depth to just above the either be a pain or really useful
floor level with the seam if you need a sliding or tight fit
outside so I doesn’t retain and mixing and matching
water or get dirty or mouldy. between electrical and
Pressurised water comes plumbing fixings can be
A shower curtain can be erected under a canvas
sprayhood as well as under a solid wheelhouse
simply from a converted helpful too.

Throughout PBO's golden anniversary year, the winning Practical Projects article will be rewarded with a pair
of Spinlock’s Lume-On bladder lights. These are tiny LED lights that attach underneath the bladder of any
lifejacket: when activated, Lume-On lights use the bladder as a diffuser, turning the whole lifejacket into a
glowing light, and are designed to work alongside existing lifejacket lights. Lume-On lights were named joint
overall winner of the prestigious 2015 DAME design award competition: the DAME jury were impressed with
the lights’ cleverness of thought, simplicity of application and very accessible cost. Priced at £14.94 a pair.

34 Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk


PRACTICAL PROJECTS

DIY dan buoy


Safety kit doesn’t have to cost a lot,
as Andrew Poyner shows

I
t has always seemed to me high, cast from
that, in a MOB emergency, scrap in a tomato
being able to deploy a life purée tin with a
ring, dan buoy, drogue and bit of 15mm
light quickly and easily could copper tube in
be a lifesaver. My system the middle, both
does just that. held on a
ABOVE Pull the red dowel to release the dan buoy
The dan buoy is made of an wooden base LEFT Dan buoy float is ply and polystyrene
odd bit of rectangular domestic during the
plastic ducting about 11 x 5.5 x casting. through the loop. The stem of In an emergency, you pull the
40cm stuffed with expanded The frame is made of odds the dan buoy above the float dowel out by its string and the
polystyrene and capped with and ends of UPVC fascia locates in a half circle cutout weight of the dan buoy pulls
bits of ply. The pole is a hollow board, but could easily be on a sort of shelf, and the the whole lot over the stern into
fibreglass one I bought from a ply (though UPVC needs light is fixed under this the sea. When ‘rearming’ the
beachside store, about 2.5m no varnishing!). COST and out of the way. The thing, a short piece of line tied
long, and would normally have The life ring rests on £5 drogue lives in a length to the bungy loop makes
a spinny fish or something two small ledges and is of domestic plastic poking it back through the hole
similar at the top. held in place by the dan waste pipe, and is tied a lot easier.
The telescopic sections are buoy which in turn is held in to the lifering as are the Mine seems to work well,
epoxied together, a flag fixed to place by a tight double loop of dan buoy and light with short though fortunately I have never
the top, and the whole thing bungy cord. The bight of this lengths of line. None of the needed to use it for real.
epoxied to the wooden caps in pokes through a hole to the dimensions are critical, though The cost was about £5 for the
the float. The weight is lead, inboard side, and has a short the dan buoy should lie flat on pole, and the rest was odds
about 4cm diameter x 4cm dowel (red in the photo) the lifering so as to grip it well. and ends I had lying around.

Easy winching PROJE


OF TH
CT
E
Rick Bowen gets a handle on it MONT
H

I
have been sailing my through the waves and spray
current boat, the and me keeping a good
Westerly Longbow lookout in the cockpit.
Vicki-D, for over 20 years With the spray hood up I
around the south coast, the have found that when
West Country, northern winching the genoa the
France and the Channel handle is limited to about COST
Islands from Hayling Island 100° movement as the hood Winch handle extension bar works a treat £36.50
Sailing Club. restricts the full use of the
I’m most likely to be found geared Lewmar winch. has become more advanced and several coats
sailing single handed, with Ungeared and using a and painful over the years I of varnish were
the spray hood up and, on standard Lewmar handle, the had wondered about how I applied. A matching star
longer trips, with my trusty load on the genoa sheet is could make it easier without drive bit (£10 from a boat
Autohelm 2000 steering us very heavy and when geared the huge expense of jumble) that fitted in the top
the amount gained each time installing powered winches. of the winch was mated with
is minimal. This is especially A few months ago I was a suitable socket and locked
difficult when close-hauled as helping my son with some in place with a stainless steel
the winches aren’t self-tailing, adjustments to his classic nut and bolt.
though the use of Winchers Mini using my engineering Under sail I can now winch
makes it a little easier when socket set when I realised the genoa in tight with the
sailing single handed. that I could modify a ratchet new handle and with a flick of
So I searched online for a socket wrench to operate the the thumb can change the
suitable commercially-made winches on the boat. gearing, operating within the
handle that would help – but A new long handled, ½in 100° of angle I have to work
to no avail. I even toyed with ratchet wrench from Halfords in. After a long beat up the
the use of a battery-operated (£25) was glued and fitted to Solent or a channel crossing
drill, but they were all too a turned down and drilled my hands are relatively pain
Star drive bit was bolted to heavy and cumbersome. out 300mm hardwood rolling free and my sail trim is much
a socket and ratchet handle As the arthritis in my hands pin (£1.50 from Wilkinsons) more seamanlike.

Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk 35


GEAR

7 Marine
Stereos tested
Ben Meakins puts seven of the best marine stereo
systems to the test on a typical sailing setup

P
laying music on board can but in recent years marine stereos have can invest in a significantly better
be somewhat polarising. On emerged. Often designed for use in wet pair of speakers – but we wanted to see
one side of the fence sit the environments like RIBs, they are how each system would cope with the
purists, who like to lose fine-tuned to overcome the noise of wind demands of a small boat on typical
themselves in the sounds of and water, are waterproof and some can small speakers.
wind and water. On the other are link into your chartplotter to allow you We went for a sail in blustery Force 5
those who find that listening to music control from the cockpit. conditions to see how each unit
enhances their enjoyment of a good We collected together seven stereos sounded on the water, before retiring to
sail, whether it’s slipping along gently and put them through their paces. This the mooring, putting on the kettle and
in a Force 1 or blasting downwind in a is a selection of what’s available – other listening to each down below.
Force 6. It’s also a good cure for options, including black boxes, are also We picked a few tracks from every end
seasickness. There is another to be found. of the musical spectrum. For jazz,
troublesome band who enjoy Wynton Marsalis’ My Funny Valentine;
cranking up the music to the How we tested them rock with Pink Floyd’s Money, The
dismay of all around them, but We made up a temporary MDF Rolling Stones’ Start Me Up, and AC/
we’ll leave them out of it for now. washboard for my Impala 28, and DC’s Thunderstruck; classical with
The fact is that music on board, mounted the stereo heads in this, Rimsky-Korsakov’s Scheherazade and
whether through cockpit speakers when wired into the boat’s existing speakers – JS Bach’s Toccata and Fugue in D Minor
sailing or piped down below to enjoy a pair of 6in car speakers in the cabin – and finally, Blur’s Parklife to see how
with a glass of wine and a square meal, and a 4in set of Fusion cockpit speakers. they sounded with pop.
is popular. Most people just pop down to This isn’t a high-end setup by any This eclectic mix showed up some
Halfords and buy a cheap car stereo, means, and for a lot more money you interesting differences.

36 Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk


MARINE STEREOS

on each zone),
Fusion MS-RA55
which can
£164.95
be linked
■ www.fusionentertainment.com
if required.
Recently launched as a compact The sound
entry-level unit, Fusion’s RA55 has an was good,
AM-FM radio, RCA Aux input, USB with a nice
connection and Bluetooth connectivity. tone and
There is no NMEA control. It takes up plenty of
very little space, and the control head volume and
is waterproof to IPX5 (which means it power, and the
can withstand a 6.3mm jet of water for interface was intuitive, installation on a boat with limited
3 minutes). You can control two with a rotary selector and easy-to- space thanks to the small faceplate
separate zones, with a nice interface use button controls. size and the minimal depth taken up
(press and scroll to adjust the volume This would make for a good by the body of the unit.

backing plate and requiring no extra


fixing or screw holes to be securely
clamped. This version – the 70N – has
NMEA connectivity, and, connected to
the boat’s NMEA2000 network, can be
controlled via the boat’s chartplotter.
Audio inputs include compatible iPods,
Bluetooth, an AUX input and an
AM/FM radio.
Two separate zones can be named
and controlled – we named them
Fusion RA70N ‘cockpit’ and ‘cabin’ – and the interface
£249.95 was intuitive and easy to use.
■ www.fusionentertainment.com standard car stereo. We tried it on my The sound was identical to the RA55,
The interface on this stereo is exactly boat, and it fitted perfectly in the slot with a nice, even tone and a good
the same as the RA55 above, but this vacated by the existing Kenwood car amount of power that made it audible
has been designed to replace a radio, clamping in with a faceplate and over the noise of wind and waves.

The front folds down to reveal a


drawer to charge, connect and keep
Fusion MS UD750 your media device dry
£499.95
■ www.fusionentertainment.com
This, one of Fusion’s higher-end device dry and charged. This was an controlled from the device. An external
stereos, has an internal water- improvement over the Aquatic AQ DAB radio module can also be
resistant dock for safe charging and products, which require you to remove connected if required.
playback of your media player the panel entirely and thus cut the The sound was excellent – crisp and
(phone/iPod), as well as bluetooth power – on this unit you can keep the clear, with a good range and tone. It
connectivity. It can also unit running while you open the door. was especially good at overcoming
communicate over NMEA2000 Control was excellent, intuitive and the noise of wind and waves in the
networks to chartplotters and well thought out, with the same control cockpit, while maintaining a good,
compatible devices. layout as the other Fusion products, balanced, undistorted sound, with
The front of the unit folds down to and your album art can be displayed plenty of volume.
reveal a drawer, USB port and AUX on the screen if connected by USB. This was a particularly good, well
input so that you can keep your media Four zones can be wired and thought-out piece of kit.

Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk 37


GEAR

effect.’ It has a built


in 288W amplifier, and
you can connect up to
eight speakers.
In use the buttons felt
fairly stiff, but were
intuitive to use. You can
remove the front panel to
reveal a drawer for your
media device. There’s also
a USB socket, which will
charge your device –
Both this model and the more up-market although only at 1A, which rules out
Aquatic AV Bluetooth MP-5UBT have the deepest bodies, with some larger devices. It also won’t play
Waterproof Marine Stereo the unit protruding 18cm behind the back over USB – unlike its more
AQ-MP-5BT panel – 3cm more than the next biggest, fully-featured unit (below).
the Fusion, which also has a drawer You can play music via Bluetooth, and
£165 inside. there is an AM/FM radio.
■ www.aquaticav.com The head unit is waterproof to IP55 – The sound was somewhat brash, but
Aquatic AV are an American company which means that ‘Water projected by this was made up for by volume – the
who produce stereos for boats, hot tubs a nozzle against the enclosure from unit was plenty powerful enough to
and Harley Davidsons. any direction shall have no harmful override any wind or water noise.

back via USB – which


means you can leave
your device inside
and control the music
selection with it safely
charging within.
The sound, as above,
was somewhat brash,
with the mid-range
especially thin-
sounding, of
particular concern
with classical music.
Aquatic AV Bluetooth This unit has an identical body and That said, maybe there aren’t many
dimensions to the simpler Aquatic AV powerboaters (the intended market for
& USB Waterproof
device, but is more fully-featured. many of these) that will listen to classical
Marine Stereo AQ-MP- The screen, instead of a simple LCD, while blasting along in a RIB.
5UBT is full-colour, and as such menus and This is a full-featured piece of kit that,
£300 controls seem easier and more intuitive. as long as you have sufficient room
■ www.aquaticav.com The internal drawer will just about fit to mount it, would give you some
an iPhone 6, and will charge and play decent audio.

Force 4 Compact
Bluetooth Marine Stereo
£99.95
■ www.force4.co.uk
This circular stereo head is designed to some of the larger units, it went loud
be similar in size to standard marine enough to be heard over wind, water and
gauges and instruments. At only engine noise – an amplifier would add
105mm in diameter, it mounts in an power if you want extra volume.
80mm hole – quick and easy to do In fact, this was the surprise of the test. Its
with a holesaw. It’s got a built-in sound was good, with clear vocals and a
AM/FM radio, a USB input to nice tone, and a particularly good bottom
connect an iPod or flash drive end. It was simple to use, with good, big
with mp3 files, and Bluetooth buttons, and waterproof, so can be
connectivity. Max power is 4x40W, mounted in the cockpit, with the iPod or
and there is a line out connection phone safely down below in the dry.
should you wish to connect an Settings are limited – you can’t, for
external amplifier. instance, adjust the fader and thus switch
However, we found it worked from cockpit to cabin – but you could
perfectly well without an amplifier – install a switch to enable you to disable the
while it didn’t have quite the power of cockpit speakers if required.

38 Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk


MARINE STEREOS

This was one of the best to use, on a


par with the top Fusion, but with a
bigger screen and intuitive functions,
and a clear, quality screen that can
display your album art – a nice touch.
There were on-screen prompts and
instructions that really simplified
connecting, using and customising the
menus and functions.
The sound was the nicest by far: it
was punchy, crisp and clear no matter
the genre of music, with just the right
emphasis, and it sounded great both
down below and when underway on
deck, where the mix was well
engineered to be heard over the noise
of wind and water. This was with our
entry level speakers, and performance
is likely to be even better with a
higher-end pair. This model has since
been superseded by a newer version,
which offers more zone and volume
controls, a tidier installation and a
JL Audio Mediamaster wireless remote control option.
£499.99
MX Amplifier - £219.99
■ www.jlaudio.co.uk

JL Audio produce a range of top-end AUX input for devices that can’t be
stereos, speakers and accoutrements – connected by USB.
and we chose the Mediamaster control You can set up four separate
head and a basic MX series, 4-channel zones and adjust the levels in each
280W Amplifier. one individually. The Mediamaster controller was
paired with an MX-200 amplifier (an
Connection was via USB and You can control the Mediamaster by extra £219.99) to deliver the sound to
Bluetooth, and you can also connect a NMEA2000, and you can wire in a up to four channels. Higher-end
Sirius satellite radio (US only) and an permanent remote control if required. amplifiers are also available

THE VERDICT

The question for these car stereos, which tend to the stereos, but the sound
stereos is: why buy a be tailored for the quieter was excellent – crisp and
marine stereo when you environments found clear and audible
can pick up a simple car in vehicles. underway – and with a
radio for half the price? Most of these units are higher-end set of speakers
One answer is that most designed for powerboats, would keep even the most
marine stereos have and to use blasting ardent audiophiles happy.
coated circuit boards, around and at full volume. Fusion’s were perhaps
protecting them from the However, there were the most fully-featured Fusion’s zone control was particularly
ravages of salt air. The definite differences to be units, with a good effective and intuitive: you can rename
other is that if you have heard in them while both interface, decent sound them to suit – here, Cockpit and Cabin
networked instruments, sitting down below and and nicely designed
the ability to control the when under sail. equipment – and the
stereo from your plotter in Force 4’s compact ability to replace a car
the cockpit is useful, Bluetooth stereo was stereo with the same
especially if you suffer surprisingly good given footprint makes the RA70
from seasickness. A the small size, and would a good buy. The prices
waterproofed control head make an excellent mini are also reasonable.
can make a difference on solution on a small boat – Aquatic AV’s systems
a small boat. the sound wasn’t as loud sounded somewhat
We also found that as others, but it was brash, but have plenty of
marine products offered perfectly acceptable. power and are well priced. You can also control some stereos
from a compatible chartplotter: this
improved sound in noisy JL Audio’s was by far The cheaper unit works is the interface on a B&G Vulcan 5,
conditions compared to the most expensive of all well over Bluetooth. controlling the Fusion RA70N

Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk 39


blank
news

View from the


boatyard
Showered with praise
Mike Pickles builds a shower base for a Nauticat 33 and explains
how to seal it against the wet environment itÕll be facing in the heads

Slope for shower base drain hole was formed using an orbital sander and 40-grit paper Chopped strand mat (CSM) will stick well

W
e’re currently working then be cut out – and once a decision has
on a Nauticat 33 which, been made on the position of the drain
having just been sold, plug, work can be carried out to make the
has been brought in to flat surface somewhat less flat.
remedy issues found We used a small orbital sander and
on the pre-purchase survey – and to 40-grit pads, and got creative. It's hard to
carry out some tLC for the new owner. get GRP to go round tight external turns
The priority job was to install a such as sharp edges and corners, so as
compression post as the mast was in A scored surface helps polyester resin this base was to be sheathed, all the
danger of becoming keel-stepped instead get a better bond to plywood edges and corners had to be rounded off.
of deck-stepped. We were using polyester resin, and to
I covered installation of a compression the opportunity to make a new shower ensure a good bond between the ply and
post on a Seamaster 925 in PBO October base too. the glass I tend to use chopped strand
2017, and the solution for the Nauticat The base was to be made so it could be mat (CSM) for the first layer. In my
was very similar. easily removed. I don't like to make any experience, this has a far higher bond with
However, we did have to change the areas of the hull inaccessible, so while the a plywood surface than woven cloth.
sole board layout, especially in the heads current vogue is to have a permanent, So to start the sheathing process on the
which also doubled as a shower. nicely-moulded shower tray, this is not bottom face of the base we first coated
The original was plywood with a GRP compatible with easy access to the inside the plywood with resin using a brush.
sheath and gelcoat finish on top. Sadly of the hull.
the underside was never treated and was The base itself is a strange shape, so the Go easy on the resin
merrily rotting away, so as we had to cut a first job was to create a template using 2in Paint it on – don’t ladle or pour – and then
new-shape board to accommodate the strips of hardboard and a glue gun. Using spread it about. All you need to do is wet
new stainless compression post, we took the template, the 19mm marine ply can out the surface before laying on a layer of
pre-cut 250gm CSM. Then, using a brush,
ABOut the AuthOr add another light coat of resin before
consolidating the layer with a roller.
Mike Pickles is a foreman at harbour Marine Services in If you have any dry areas, add a little
Southwold. he learned to sail aged four, flirted with an more resin – but the trick is to use as little
Olympic campaign in his early 20s and continued with as possible. Resin has very little strength
yacht deliveries and yacht and dinghy racing until his in itself, and using too much might speed
mid-40s. Now his knees have disintegrated, he is the proud up the wetting-out process, but the
(and slightly obsessive) owner of an MGrS34 ¾-tonner. laminate will be resin-rich and as a result
n www.southwoldboatyard.co.uk will be weaker, brittle and less likely to

40 Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk


View from theof
name boatyard
article

Brush on a layer of resin – not too thick Lay on the mat and brush in more resin A resin roller consolidates things nicely

Heat speeds up the curing process Glass tape was applied to the edges... ... until the whole thing was nicely sealed

100-grit paper round the edges, it's time to The way round this is to apply multiple
add 100mm-wide glass tape round the thin layers. I like to use four layers and
edges. By applying just the right amount then a top layer with added wax in styrene
of tension you can usually get the tape to (also known as topcoat or flowcoat).
lay nice and flat without too many creases. The wax comes to the surface, seals off
The tape is thin, flexible and needs very the gelcoat from the surrounding air and
little resin to wet out. In this case I was allows it to cure, otherwise it will always
adding the edge tape on a Friday remain tacky.
afternoon, and I added a little white Once cured, the area can be sanded flat
pigment so that on my return the following using 100-grit paper, which removes any
week I would remember exactly which major bumps and hollows and provides a
point I'd reached. key for the finish layers of gel.
The whole base was then rough-sanded The radiused edges needed to be
with 100-grit paper, washed and dried. squared off, so we put together a wood
Layers of gelcoat provide a smooth finish The sheathing was now essentially frame. A resin-proof tape was applied to
complete, so it was time to add the the surfaces of the wood so nothing would
bond well to the plywood. gelcoat. Surface coating using gelcoat stick to it, then further layers of gel were
Another reason for using just enough has one big issue, and that is air bubbles: applied and the edges filled. Once cured,
resin is cleanliness. Some folk seem to get you add air during the stirring process and the frame was simply removed, leaving a
GRP everywhere and end up with a huge then again during application with a solid, square edge.
mess, and much of this comes down to brush, roller or spray. The final process is marking, sanding,
the uncontrolled sloshing of resin which, marking and more sanding until you’re
when you come to consolidation, will Thin layers happy with the surface fairness, followed by
spray the stuff around in every direction. Gelcoat is thick, and it's very tempting and cutting with a suitable cutting compound.
Using polyester you have a great deal of perfectly possible to add 2-3mm of Most fast-cut compounds will remove
control on cure times compared to using gelcoat at one time. After an initial cure it’ll scratches made by 1,000-grit wet-and-dry
epoxy resin systems. look pretty good... until, that is, you start to paper, and you’ll get a pretty good surface
Adding a little more or less catalyst is a sand and then cut and polish the surface, finish. I like to go a couple of stages
bit of an art, and I find it hard to explain after which you will see lots of tiny holes in further with 1,500 and 2,000-grit paper
how much to use at specific times as I the surface. Sanding or cutting further before cutting with a fine-cut compound
seem to manage to add just enough. might remove these initial holes, but only as the finish in my eyes is far superior and
You have no such flexibility with epoxy for others to emerge underneath. seems to stay cleaner for longer.
systems, but one sure-fire way to speed
things up with polyester is to use a heat
lamp which can allow you to get a
workable cure in an hour or so.
Where epoxy wins is in bonding strength
to a substrate such as plywood. However,
to mitigate this using polyester resin,
creating a dust-free and well-scored
surface helps immensely.
When sheathing the top surface we
followed up the layer of CSM with a layer
of 300gm biaxial woven cloth. Again, a
light coating of resin and a good roll will
pull up any surplus resin from the lower
layer. Use slightly more resin on the edges
to help the cloth round the corners and
stay stuck down during the cure.
After trimming and a quick sand using Highly polished, the new heads sole board/shower tray looks very clean and tidy

Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk 41


Ask the experts
Got a question? Email pbo@timeinc.com
Here’s just a selection of the latest questions from
PBO readers. Email or write to the address on
page 5 and our experts will answer your queries

ENGINES

Fuel issues for small outboards


Q I own a 2.5hp 4-stroke
Mercury outboard that
drives my Laser Stratos
manufacturers were forced
down the route of 4-strokes
which are easier to tune for
dissolve the hard salts
deposited in the jets. Only one
thing gets rid of that, a hard
keelboat when the wind lower emissions. object pushed through the jet.
dies, and because there’s Unfortunately one of the side Since being an apprentice
rarely little wind the engine effects is that they have to 50 years ago we were taught
doesn’t get used much. ‘lean’ the mixture right down never to push steel wire
Annoyingly, when I do at tick over and that’s where through jets, that it would
need it the engine has a the problem starts. They fit widen the orifice causing all
habit of failing, and always tiny pilot jets and hide or do sorts of problems!
for the same reason: issues away with the tickover idle In actual fact people like me
of fuel starvation. mixture adjustment to stop us found out from practical
The 2009 engine looks like richening the mixture. experience that pulling a wire
new. I keep it clean, flush Modern fuels have up to 5% out of a wire brush gives the
with clean water, and empty alcohol/biofuel added and this perfect implement to gently
Even well-maintained small
the fuel tank and run the is highly reactive to some of push through the jets and
outboards can fall foul of fuel
engine dry if I have used it problems the plastics and rubbers used clean the hard deposits out.
– in fact its only burned one in our carbs. It rarely does any damage.
gallon of fuel since new! On commercial solvent – not Also alcohol absorbs water
top of that it’s regularly something that’s practical from the atmosphere, so we
serviced by a Mercury agent.
My engineer tells me my
problem is a common issue
when you are at sea.
Given that hundreds
(perhaps thousands) of PBO
have a perfect medium for
creating havoc with the tiny
pilot jets.
My engine
because of the additives readers own small 2.5-10hp I’ve stripped down a lot of
now in petrol, which will rot
fuel lines and coat the
outboards has anyone come
up with an answer?
these due to issues you talk
about. Inevitably there’s a jelly-
Q The Yanmar 2GM20
engine in my boat
has had an intermittent
carburettor with a brown It’s not only a hassle to like substance in the float problem since I got the
vanish-like substance that keep taking the motor to an bowl, but more importantly the boat four years ago.
blocks fuel jets. outboard repair agent but a jets are blocked or coated with It can be running
I’m told that by running the safety issue as the motor is a non-soluble metallic salt. relatively smoothly for
engine once a week you can my back-up. Although I carry There’s a theory gaining many hours of motoring
reduce the chances of it a radio, anchor and paddle ground that the alcohol at sea or manoeuvring in
blocking as quickly – but it it’s still a risk if the wind dies additive is absorbing water port until, when re-
will still block eventually. on a rocky coastline. from the atmosphere which is starting the engine, the
I’ve spoken to many other John Shears, By email reacting with the brass jet problem begins. This
owners of small engines and screwed in to the alloy body of problem may continue for
they’re all experiencing the STU DAVIES REPLIES: A bit the carb. Electrolysis comes in an undetermined period
same issue – though people of background first. Two- to play, which then produces a of time and then, after
with older 2-stroke engines strokes are effectively banned hard metallic salt. some sailing and for no
don’t seem to suffer the fuel for leisure use in the UK on Carb cleaner was developed apparent reason, go away
blockage problem so badly. environmental grounds – for dissolving ‘varnish’ left by again... until the next time.
The agent’s cure is to soak they’re considered too evaporated petrol, but I’ve
the carburettor in a smokey. So the big found is that it doesn’t

THE PBO EXPERTS To ask a question email pbo@timeinc.com and include your address. Pictures are helpful

SEa SafETy SEaling and CRuiSing SailS maSTS & RigS SuRvEy and ElECTRiCS EnginES
Keith Colwell is BOnding Stuart Carruthers Ian Brown of the Mike Coates worked CORROSiOn Paul Holland is Stu Davies has
author of the Gareth Ross is is the RYA Cruising International in the spar and Colin Brown runs part-chair of the a background in
RYA Sea Survival Sika UK’s Marine Manager and has OneSails loft group rigging business for a marine survey and BMEEA and MD of engineering in the
Handbook Market Field sailed extensively is an expert on sails many years consultancy company, Energy Solutions coal and oil field
Specialist CB Marine Services (UK) industries

42 Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk


ASK THE EXPERTS
Carburettor
cleaner may SEA SAFETY
only partially
solve fuel jet
blockages
Top tips for safe use of a tender
Q What are your top five
basic safety rules that
should be followed when
using a tender?
Kim Harman, Alvor, Portugal

KEITH COLWELL REPLIES:


This is a good question since
This is the only using a tender can be the
way to clean a most dangerous part of going
carb properly afloat.
– strip it and ■ Only use the tender when
Using the tender
clean all the the conditions are suitable. If can be the
orifices manually. it’s too rough, or too windy, trickiest part of
I suspect that what is don’t go. going boating
happening in your case is that ■ Always wear a lifejacket.
the jets have been coated in ■ Do not overload the tender
hard salts and that soluble – better to make several trips personal pyrotechnics. emergency oars or paddles
deposits are also being lightly loaded – and make sure ■ Carry an alternative means if you’re under oars alone.
deposited at the same time. the weight is evenly of propulsion. For example, And if I were permitted to
The carb cleaner is cleaning distributed. If the tender is paddles or oars if you’re make a couple more
the soluble deposits but not small, always step into the relying on a small outboard, or additions, it would be to carry
cleaning all the crud out. You middle when boarding. a small anchor and warp
then have a situation where ■ Carry a means of (depending on the depth of
the engine sort of runs OK till communication in case you where you’re boating), a bailer
the build-up gets too much… need to call for help – or bilge pump and, at night, a
and the cycle continues. handheld VHF, PLB or white lantern or torch.

is running like a dog Edgar Liepens has a Yanmar


2GM20 engine like this – but
When I say it runs ‘relatively STU DAVIES REPLIES: it’s running rough
smoothly’ I mean there’s a It sounds as if there’s an no difference then you know
constant vibration, but intermittent misfire on one of it’s the bad cylinder.
generally acceptable for a the cylinders. The ‘wuff’ When the noises start, get Now you can focus on the
two-cylinder motor. puzzles me – but could be into a good position and cause. Is it a sticking valve? Is
The problem manifests explained by a sticking valve. slacken off the injector nuts in it a bad injector?
itself as a series of soft jolts The ‘impact’ felt is likely to turn. Be careful: diesel from I’d take off the rocker box
from inside the engine or be the cylinder that is firing the pump is under huge first and check all is good in
gearbox, running at as little taking the load as the pressure of around 3000psi there. Look for excessive
as 1,000rpm under load. It governor tries to compensate and can penetrate the skin – clearances on the bad
sounds like a ‘wuff wuff’, for the loss of power as the which is why you need cloth cylinder’s valves or signs of
approximately once per other one misfires. So we around the injectors to damage. If possible do this
second. Each ‘wuff’ is need to find out if one of the absorb the diesel. after shut down when it’s
supplemented by an cylinders is misfiring. As you ‘crack’ the injector been running badly.
additional ‘impact’ that can First get all the tools nut one of two things will If all looks good then pull
be felt all over the boat. needed to slacken off the happen. If the engine sounds the injectors and get them
Increase the revs and is injector nuts, along with like it it’s going to stop then checked, take note of the one
becomes more intense. some thick pieces of cloth to you know that’s the cylinder off the bad cylinder and pay
Edgar Liepins, Latvia absorb diesel. that’s working OK. If it makes particular attention to that.

50 of the most frequently asked boating questions are answered by our experts on the PBO website. Visit www.pbo.co.uk

GAS FITTING PAINT AND YACHT DESIGN TOILETS AND TRAILER- ELECTRONICS BOATBUILDING WOOD
Peter Spreadborough, ANTIFOULING Andrew Blyth is a PLUMBING SAILING Chris Ellery of Tony Davies has Richard Hare is a
of Southampton Richard Jerram is naval architect with Karl Sutcliffe of Lee Colin Haines is a Greenham-Regis been building and wood technologist
Calor Gas Centre, former UK technical interest in stability Sanitation knows design engineer Electronics is a repairing wooden, and long-time
has 20 years in the manager of and buoyancy about holding tanks, who has trailer- former Merchant GRP and steel boats wooden-boat owner
industry International Paint toilets and plumbing sailed for 25 years Navy officer for 40 years

Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk 43


Cathodic protection
SURVEY AND CORROSION with the correct
anode is the only
sure-fire way to

Prop-er job

MGDUFF
eliminate prop
corrosion

Q If I coat a propeller
with an epoxy bitumen
or tar coating will it reduce
In the case of
galvanic or
electrolytic
A correctly fitted
anode would be a
far more reliable
or eliminate electrolysis and corrosion the way of protecting
normal underwater action could be your propeller from
corrosion? concentrated in the corrosion.
I’ve been reading PBO exposed areas The anode size
since 1998 and I find the rather than being and material
content most informative – a spread over the should be chosen
huge fount of knowledge in whole surface area to match the size
all disciplines of yachting. of the propeller, of your propeller
Gerhard Alberts leading to and the type of
South Africa accelerated local water your boat
corrosion effects. sits in.
COLIN BROWN REPLIES: Another problem A good polish
In theory coating a propeller is getting any coating to stick Adding coatings to it will also each year will keep the
will protect it from corrosion in reliably to a propeller. A make your propeller less surfaces smooth, making your
sea water. The reality of smooth surface, high speed smooth and therefore less propeller more efficient and a
course is not so simple. through the water and efficient unless you’re very less secure home for
The coating you apply must sometimes cavitation all tend careful in the coating biofouling organisms.
be complete to offer all-over to make it difficult to keep a application and finishing. MG DUFF are experts in
protection. It may take two or coating on a propeller. Any rough coating surface marine corrosion protection
more coats to make sure there There are some antifouling may also make biofouling – you’ll find lots of useful
are no pores in the coating products that will stick, but the more likely as the bacterial information on their website
which will otherwise allow application conditions and slime that starts it all can get a mgduff.co.uk, as well as an
normal sea water corrosion to surface preparation have to be grip in the tiny irregularities in online tool for ensuring you
carry on as normal. absolutely perfect. the coating. buy the right anode for the job.

Seacock’s jammed… should I replace


anything else while I’m at it?
Quality ball valves from a
Dezincification in a failed skin reputable supplier will be

Q I have a Moody 31
built in 1989 and one
of the inlet seacocks has
fitting allowed this seacock to
be simply snapped off
DZR (dezincification
resistant) and marked CR
(corrosion resistant)
failed in the shut position.
This doesn’t unduly
concern me for the present
as I’ll replace it before long your boat may
with a new Maestrini DZR also be original and
Ball Valve when the boat they tend to stiffen
comes out of the water at and become
the end of the season. brittle with age,
My question is should I making them
be replacing the skin fitting vulnerable to
as well as the ball valve? I breakage as
don’t know if or when they they move
have ever been replaced original – in which case fitting when you try
before I owned the boat. they’ve done very well which costs to get them off
MR Daniels lasting this long. around £15. the old seacock.
Colchester Taking the valve off a skin To get rid of Our main photo shows a
fitting without dislodging the the old skin fitting broken skin fitting from a
COLIN BROWN REPLIES: fitting can be a challenge in you can carefully cut off the Moody 33. The valve was
The answer is short and the first place, and removing flange from outside using an still working but the skin
simple. Yes! You should the collar to reseal the old angle grinder and cold fitting had suffered
definitely replace the skin skin fitting if it has moved in chisels then simply pull the dezincification – the pink
fitting – and hose tail – at the the process can also be a whole assembly through colour of the remaining
same time as the seacock. big challenge. into the boat. metal is a giveaway. You can
If you’re fitting a DZR valve The extra labour involved You should also consider see the salt crusting where
then you should also fit a in trying to save the old skin fitting a new hose to your the weakened skin fitting
DZR skin fitting and hose fitting may cost more (in new seacock. Unless you’ve had been leaking. It
tail. All of these fittings on terms of time, money and changed them yourself and snapped off under light
your boat may well be knuckle skin) than a new know better, the hoses on manual force.

44 Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk


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Alastair and Monica sailing


Elissa off the Dorset coast

ELISSA
sailed north, taking Elissa to Norway.
Later still, on one of his trips to St Malo,
Elissa was off Alderney when Roy handed
the helm to his crew so he could get some

an Elizabethan 23
rest. The wind picked up from the west
and, faithfully following the course he’d
been given, the helmsman was not aware
that Elissa was sliding down large waves
with an onshore wind. Tacking and trying
Alastair Inglis tells the tale of the well- to beat away on a very dark night with a
5ft draught was a bad combination – the
travelled but down-at-heel yacht he restored keel touched bottom and was bounced up
the beach on a 35ft ebbing tide.
Two small holes meant water and sand

O
filtered throughout the hull, sinking her in
ur Elizabethan 23 Elissa was Biscay. As they were both retired they had shallow water but at least allowing them to
launched in 1973 at the plenty of time to do this. It’s a passage get safely to shore.
Ropewalk Boat Yard in they made not once, but twice – an
Lymington. Previous owner amazing achievement in a small boat. Patch-up job
Roy Lister sailed her When things aren’t so rosy at sea for us With some ingenuity she was patched up
extensively using the very basic dead aboard Elissa I just think: ‘She’s sailed at low tide, refloated on the next high
reckoning methods of navigation most of Biscay twice, so just get on with it!’ It water and then sailed back to Poole
the time, and he never really got around to doesn’t always take the fear away, but at without further incident.
doing much cosmetic work to the boat. least gives us reassurance in the boat. When Roy’s health started to deteriorate
However, his love and trust in the yacht With more adventure in mind, Roy later he decided to put Elissa up for sale in
design and its fabulous handling ability
allowed him to sail to the coast of
Brittany, the Channel Islands, St Malo
and the Isles of Scilly.
Roy then decided to get more
adventurous so, leaving Lilliput Sailing
Club in Poole, he sailed the Channel to
France, dropping the mast to navigate the
canals, and with his wife joining him they
motored all the way to the Mediterranean.
A good friend flew down to meet Elissa
to help him sail her back to Poole, while
his wife flew home. The two of them then
made their way back through the Bay of As found: rust stains and fouling can’t disguise the good looks of the Elizabethan 23

46 Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk


ELIZABETHAN 23 RESCUE
1985. As a member of Lilliput Sailing Club First job for Elissa, a scrub
I was constantly looking at this pretty boat down from top to bottom
which sat on her mooring for 17 months.
At the time Monica and I were looking at
Drascombe Luggers to buy for general
day sailing, but the prices were too high.
l contacted Roy and viewed Elissa on
several occasions in November when it
was freezing cold and dark – a good
time to buy, but not to sell!
I came to realise the Elizabethan would
be a much better buy than a Drascombe
Lugger for me so a deal was made. Roy
was very sad to let her go, of course, but
pleased that she would remain at the
same club where he’d be able to see her.

David Thomas design


We were delighted that we were now the
proud owners of one of the best and
prettiest boat designs by David Thomas,
who also designed other boats in the
Elizabethan range as well as the Sigmas.
Soon came the very daunting task of
restoring Elissa to a standard she
deserved for such a classic yacht design.
We decided to make a list for our winter
work – a list which turned out to be about
a mile long.
First was to get the hull looking better.
Due to the condition of the gel coat, I had
no option other than to coat her with Sand in the gearbox required a complete
epoxy paint all over – not the easiest of strip down and bearing replacement
jobs when temperature is so critical.
Gunwales and all brightwork were
stripped to bare wood and four coats of
varnish applied. Working in the cold and
as long as light was available we were
able to see some results.

Sand everywhere
Once this was done, the interior was next.
Below decks did not have the best of
smells, and sand was in every nook
and cranny which was a nightmare to
remove – and is still being found several
years later. The headlining was hanging
down in many places which was initially
sealed back and later completely Elissa on the pontoon at Lilliput Sailing Durable Dyneema rope replaces frayed
renewed. We replaced all the wiring. Club shortly after her relaunch wire on the keel lifting mechanism
The original engine, a petrol Petter, we
replaced with an air cooled 6hp diesel
Hatz, burning a third of a litre an hour. The
biggest difficulty with this set-up proved to
be the exhaust: we eventually settled on a
lagged stainless steel flexible pipe which
works very well.

Back in the water


By relaunch day Elissa was ready to face
her proud new parents and the many new
adventures to come – and we’ve had quite
a few of them!
Roy came down to watch the relaunch
and congratulated us on changing her
looks so well, shedding a few tears while
telling us: ‘I know you’ll look after her’.
Roy sadly died a few years later, but at
least he knew Elissa would have a fine
new life with us.
Over the years since then we’ve added Old Tufnol blocks have been replaced Alastair has designed and made his own
various bits of kit such as an echo ➜ with modern stainless steel ones self-steering wind vane

Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk 47


bOATS

sounder, an electric autopilot and a Above Sitting pretty:


new set of sails. Elissa on a mooring
at Swanage
I have also designed and almost
perfected a servo pendulum self-steering Right Looking good
wind vane. They look simple enough but in a new coat of
in reality are very complex instruments in paint on her cradle
at Lilliput
the proportions of weight and engineering
required. Mine has taken over three years
in the development. On a trip from Hurst
to Swanage, I set it up and we sailed
within five degrees of our course straight
to our waypoint. I was delighted, but I quoted for bearings I went to a VW parts under the side decks, so I started to
hasten to add that I’ve not yet gone to shop where I got the same bearings for design a way of utilising this space.
sleep while being steered by the wind £4.80 each. A big saving! On the port side I made a control panel
vane, not even for a short time! We took another trip back from and full size chart table which can double
Weymouth in a south-westerly Force 7 up as a dining table when bolted to the
Rollercoaster rides (some will be saying the b....y fools!), but stairway. On the starboard side, I built five
On one of our trips, we were on the way to we found it to be a real learning curve. Not lockers for storing the usual things one
Weymouth. Just off the Shambles and on only do you gain vital knowledge, but you needs on any boat. A whole design
our final tack in, the wind dropped. The can assess the boat’s performance and change to our lovely little boat.
engine was labouring and we had no your ability – and later make any
alternative but to anchor close to the reinforcements or changes to either! Modernisation
south entrance of Portland Harbour where While rounding St Aldhelm’s Head we On the rigging side I replaced old Tufnol
the old Hood was sunk as a blockship – encountered waves higher than the blocks with modern stainless steel ones,
it’s a really good fishing spot. It was no crosstrees. Elissa was in a calm at the and slab reefing took the place of the old
time before our friends the Royal Navy bottom of the trough and at the full roller reefing system. I then made my own
turned up to check on us as we were Force 7 at the top. I already had a reefed stackpack for £35, after receiving a quote
anchored in their waters. main but even so she performed very well. at the Southampton Boat Show for £375.
While inspecting the engine I found that A very interesting sail! The frayed wire keel uphaul was
the gearbox was full of sand – no wonder replaced with Dyneema braid rope and
the engine was labouring – so on our Bright ideas has been there for over 12 years now.
return to home port it was gearbox out, One night while moored at Chapman’s I can highly recommend the Elizabethan
clean up and replace four bearings. Pool I was contemplating the fact that 23 for its looks, sailing ability, draught and
Shocked at the £156 one marine supplier there was a good deal of wasted space vast locker space for a small boat.
We have enjoyed many years of sailing
around the South Coast – one year doing
970NM. We’re able to get very close to the
shoreline out of the wind, which is a big
advantage as we often see fellow sailors
not far away wearing winter clothing while
we’re still in T-shirts.
The Elizabethan Owners Association has
a very informative website (eoa.org.uk)
and membership is great fun with an
annual weekend get together in some
South Coast port. We also try to meet up
Chart table doubles as a dining table Alastair built his own control panel in on land during the winter to exchange
when attached to companionway steps previously empty under-deck space ideas and offer help and advice.

48 Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk


practical enginean
DescalIng descaling
engIne

Engine descaling DIY


and save
Mark Ryan demonstrates how he cleaned the raw water money
passages on a Yanmar 2GM20 with the use of Rydlyme

T
he venerable, hardy Yanmar
2GM20 on Triola, my much-
loved 30ft 1970s Albin Ballad,
was installed long before
I owned her, likely in the mid-’90s:
I have never been able to track down
the exact date. Through all sorts of
challenging conditions, the engine
has never let me down.
Every year, I dutifully service the engine:
however, in those services I had never
inspected the thermostat. So, upon
noticing some rust around the thermostat
housing, I figured it was high time to get
the thermostat out. On its removal, I was
confronted by a very crusty and sorry-
looking affair. Peering down some of the
raw water passages, I noted that about
20% of the openings were blocked with
salt and scale deposits.
This can lead to poor cooling
performance, eventually resulting in Taking out the thermostat
overheating and damage to the engine.
Much Googling followed, as well as
many posts to the beardy, sage and salty
seadogs of the PBO forums – and, as a
result, I discovered Rydlyme. Rydlyme
is a non-toxic, biodegradable solution that
uses some form of chemical wizardry to
remove scale as well as ‘rust, mussels,
barnacles, zebra mussels, tiger shells
and other water-formed deposits’. The removed thermostat Waterways choked with deposits

Figuring out your circuit


What is rydlyme? Now we have our Rydlyme, we need to
figure out the route we need to pump
this through our engine, and make sure
The general ideal of this jollop is to mix that the solution reaches every part of
it at a ratio of one part Rydlyme to one the engine it needs to. The raw water
part water and then pump it around flowing through our hardy little engine
your raw water system. Before you will take one of two routes. If the engine
begin, you must remove all your engine is cold, the thermostat will stay closed to
anodes as Rydlyme will gobble them help the engine get up to operating
up. It is, however, perfectly safe on temperature and the water will flow
most other materials, including (but through the bypass.
not limited to) the following: Once the engine temperature rises,
Most alloys – The rule of thumb is the thermostat will open and close as
that if the alloy is designed for use in a required to let the raw water move around
water system (aluminium engine block the engine to cool it down (and this is the
etc), which most marine equipment is, area we want to descale the most).
the alloy should be compatible. If in With this in mind, simply taking out the
any doubt, email Rydlyme’s technical thermostat and pumping the Rydlyme
department (www.rydlyme.co.uk). Also: through the engine will likely favour the
iron; HDPE; copper; ceramic; bypass and not actually flow through our
gelcoats; glassfibre; copper nickel; I sourced the Rydlyme from the engine at all, reducing the effectiveness
PVC; steel; Teflon; plastic; titanium; good people at French Marine in of the treatment dramatically. The solution
stainless steel; painted surfaces; Brightlingsea, who suggested two to this, once the thermostat is out, is to
rubber (seals/gaskets). litres would be ample to do the job. clamp off the bypass hose to force the
liquid through the engine itself. I only had ➜

Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk 49


practical

Cooling water using the bypass with the thermostat closed Cooling water flowing through the block with the thermostat open

a standard G-clamp available: however, it ABOVE: Bypass


hose clamped
is advisable to use a proper hose clamp
as that will be less damaging to the hose. The final route
our Rydlyme will
Pump the Rydlyme through take through
the engine
your engine
Now that we have our plan and a method
to prevent our Rydlyme bypassing the
engine entirely, it’s time to set up the
circuit. The Rydlyme is circulated using a
small 12V submersible pump.

n Remove both your engine anodes


(there is one in the head and one in the
block) or else these will get gobbled up
by the Rydlyme.

n Remove your water pump by undoing


Undo the bolt and pivot bolt Attach the hose and the little 12V pump
the bolt and pivot bolt holding the water
pump on. (Pictured right) careful not to damage the housing. Put n Remove your thermostat. Be very gentle
the plate back on, making sure that you with the two bolts that hold the housing
n Remove the impeller from your replace the bolts in the correct order. on – if you shear them off, you will be in a
water pump by undoing the tiny bolts world of pain. (This I know at first-hand!)
on the back-face plate and taking it n Take the inlet pipe off the water pump
out with either an impeller removal tool and attach your hose pipe and little 12V n Replace the housing without the
or a couple of screwdrivers, being pump with a Jubilee clip. thermostat in it.

50 Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk


descaling
enginean engine
descaling

Pump and return in the bucket, ready to go

The circuit complete and ready to start pumping. You can pop any other bits that need I also dropped my anti-siphon
cleaning (such as your thermostat) into the bucket of Rydlyme and watch them fizz valve into the bucket

n Take the pipe off the top of the n If you have any other bits (such as Startling results
thermostat housing which goes to the your thermostat) that need cleaning, pop The results were startling. All of the
exhaust elbow (or, more likely, the these into the bucket and watch them raw water passageways were clear,
anti-siphon valve) and put a pipe on here, fizz away and clean themselves up. I also and my old, grim and crusty
with a Jubilee clip, back into your bucket. popped my anti-siphon valve in the bucket thermostat, which I had assumed
as it looked as though it could do with was beyond any hope of rescue
n Clamp off the bypass. some TLC. (I had even purchased a new one
from French Marine), came up as
n You are all set! Your circuit is complete. n Rydlyme suggest one to four hours, so good as new.
I ran the solution for two hours one way I was now content that my boat’s
n Next, we mix up our Rydlyme: one part through the block, then reversed the raw water passageways would
water to one part Rydlyme. I am informed circuit and ran it for two hours back the be in a good condition for my
that the temperature of the water has no other way. season ahead. Job done!
bearing over the Rydlyme’s effectiveness.

n Start pumping, making sure to keep


an eye on your battery levels!

The treated thermostat next to the new one


The thermostat before treatment

Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk 51


New Gear
Laura Hodgetts reports on the latest marine products

7in and 10in models


XF607B and 1069B products are 7in and 10.4in colour GPS
chartplotters with integrated AIS receivers (no transmitters on
these units). They cost £915 and £1,145 respectively.
Xinuo electronics
Macduff-based Echomaster Marine has recently been
announced as a distributor to Japanese based Xinuo Standalone plotter
Information Technologies (pronounced ‘zeeno’). Xinuo The XF808 (£739.00) is a
offers a wide selection of low cost marine electronics standalone 8in GPS
including chartplotters (with or without AIS), GPS chartplotter that will also
navigators and marine grade monitors. All chartplotters are accept AIS inputs, although
compatible with C-MAP MAX charting and are supplied with this doesn’t have an
mounting bracket, external GPS antenna and C-MAP local integrated receiver, while
area chart. the XF1069 is a larger,
The 12in GPS chartplotter has a built-in AIS class B 10.4in version of the same
transceiver, three input/output ports and is compatible with thing, waterproof to IP65
NMEA0183. Price: £1,029 ■ www.echomastermarine.co.uk and costs £839.00.

Henri Lloyd New


Energy Buoyancy Aid Deco-Deck WB paint Deco-Deck GTS
Two new paints have Deco-Deck GTS (Gloss Transparent
The new CE-approved Energy Buoyancy
been launched by Solvent-based) is a single-component,
Aid from Henri-Lloyd is designed to reduce
Italian company solvent-resistant transparent paint with
bulk and provide maximum freedom of
Cecchi to offer UVA filters. GTS is claimed to be very
movement. The elasticated side panel and
specialist deck elastic to suit exposed areas of wood
nylon webbing belt/buckle offers a more
protection. and is said to be ideal for handrails,
customised fit, whilst the elasticated
The water-based masts and areas of the deck where
shoulder panel and hem reduce windage.
Deco-Deck WB is a there is a lot of wear. It can be applied
A touch-and-close fastening front pocket
one-component polyurethane elastic on transparent
provides easy
coating, which can be applied to wood, varnish in good
access storage.
glassfibre, metals and previous coatings condition, after
Priced at £49.
such as TBS and Treadmaster. the surface has
■ www.
The white base colour can be been sanded.
henrilloyd.com
coloured with other water-based paints. For extra grip,
If necessary, prepare the surface with users can add
10 10 CFS epoxy system or Nautilus Cecchi’s Antiskid
Epoxy Primer. It can be trodden on from Powder. Deco-
the next day (15-20°C) and is promised Deck GTS has a
to have excellent anti-slip properties. shelf life of about
It can also be covered with Deco-Deck 6-8 months.
GTS or Nautilus Polyurethane Enamel. ■ www.cecchi.it

52 Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk


NEW GEAR

Gill Thermogrid
mid layer range Verdict
I tested two of the items in Gill’s new These are thermals that
mid layer range: the zip-neck long- don’t look like thermals.
sleeve top and leggings, made from They are really
four-way stretch Thermogrid fabric for comfortable, breathable
‘extreme stretch and warmth’. and easy to layer, or to wear
The fabric’s interior grid-construction on their own as a tracksuit.
is said to enhance compressibility, On a ski trip I wore these
airflow and dry time, while the outer in minus 8°C with just a
layer is smooth for improved layering. T-shirt under my ski
The slim-fit designs are true to size, jacket and felt fine.
very soft and comfortable. They wash The stretchy
well and still look brand new a year bottoms were
later. Details include a soft fabric cover great for loafing
at the top of the zip to avoid chin chafe around in at the
and thumb holes in the sleeves to keep chalet after. The
hands warm. Available in ash grey with Thermogrid mid layers dry
red details, other items in the range quickly, they look good (i.e.
include a jacket and gilet. not like traditional thermals)
The leggings are priced at £45, the zip and are a great fit. Highly
neck jumper at £59. recommended.
■ www.gillmarine.com/gb Drew Hodgetts

5in and 7in models


The XF520 and XF608 Marine GPS
Chartplotters have 5in and 7in displays
respectively. These have a colour
screen, can also display NMEA0183
data, and are waterproof to IP65. They
cost £450 and £635 respectively.

Marine Diesel Basics


This book is said to
be the first visual
guide to marine
diesel systems.
Author Dennison
Berwick promises to
show everything
boaters need to
know to maintain
their diesel system,
winterise, protect Tefal Ingenio stacking cookware
from heat and Pots and pans take up an inordinate clamp handle fits all of them in turn.
humidity, and recommission for trouble- amount of room on board. These Tefal The plastic lids work well and are a
free running. Features include more than Ingenio pans have a detachable secure way to stop spillages when the
300 drawings; 64 maintenance tasks; 66 handle which Tefal says makes them pans are cold. They’re pricey but are
lay-up tasks; 53 recommissioning tasks. It take up 40% less room than regular excellent quality and take up much
covers sailboats, motorboats and pots and pans. The pans also come less space on board than regular
narrowboats; indirect and direct cooled with plastic lids for storage of leftovers. crockery. The glass lids fit well and
diesel engines, as well as saildrives. We tried some. The stainless steel milk have rubberised edges – again good
Published in paperback and ebook and saucepans pans fit inside the for a small boat.
formats, by Voyage Press, Toronto. Priced non-stick frying pan, and a clever Ben Meakins
at £9.99 ■ www.marinedieselbasics.com

Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk 53


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CRUISING

Fowey

rb our
Fowey

Ha
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we
Fo
5m
Polruan
Ali Wood explores Fowey Lighthouse
LFl.WR.5s White House Lantic
Bay
Lantivet
Bay
10m

5m 10m

southern Cornwall’s Day Mark 5m


Wk
Udder Rock
Udder Rock

beauty spot, a harbour Gribbin Head


10m Bell

town steeped in history Cannis


Rock
Bell

Royal Fowey Yacht Club

T
here are few harbours in Britain Mole in chapter one of the beloved by Daphne du Maurier. The novelist lived
where you get a cruise liner children’s book. Having explored the in the coach house opposite but later
anchoring amongst Cornish gigs, Fowey estuary by kayak, I have to say I moved to Menabilly on Gribbin Head,
a Russian ship loading china clay, agree, so am delighted to see it again with which features in some of her books,
and the BBC filming Poldark. Welcome to the harbourmaster, Captain Paul Thomas. including Rebecca and My Cousin Rachel.
Fowey Harbour – where multitasking is all It’s a glorious bank holiday, and it seems You can walk to Menabilly from
in a day’s work. Even the harbourmaster everyone under the age of 10 is out Readymoney Cove, passing St Catherine’s
doubles as the pilot, managing to park crabbing off Albert Quay. People complain, Castle which marks the entrance to the
150m ships while policing the waters. Paul tells me, but he ignores them. ‘It’s harbour. Built as part of Henry VIII’s south
This south Cornwall harbour sees 300 nice to see kids having fun,’ he says. ‘The coast defences, the fort was again used
ships a year and 7,000 leisure boats, yet crabs spend all day going up and down to defend the harbour during World War II.
for somewhere so busy, it’s surprisingly but they’ve got choosy about their bait.’ Before the castle, the harbour was
quaint. The town of Fowey on the west The kids move their buckets aside for us defended by two blockhouses – one
bank is a maze of whitewashed to climb aboard the launch and a minute in Fowey and the other in Polruan – with
fishermen’s cottages and narrow streets, later we’re on the water, motoring towards a great chain stretched between them,
and the estuary beyond a stretch of idyllic the harbour entrance. On the cliff above which would be raised to keep out the
wooden creeks that inspired Kenneth Readymoney Cove is the pretty Italianate French and Spanish. Fortunately, no
Grahame’s The Wind in the Willows. villa, Point Neptune. The property belongs such hazards threaten today’s shipping.
‘There is nothing – absolutely nothing to Dawn French but it has another claim ‘There’s nothing to concern a yacht,’
– half so much worth doing as simply to fame; the ornate iron gates are referred says Paul. ‘Small craft should avoid
messing about in boats,’ says Ratty to to in the famous opening lines of Rebecca entering at half ebb with a gale force

56 Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk


FOWEY

Golant
Quay 1
1

Pilotage 27
Pen
poll
Cree
k 5
Fowey is accessible at all states of
the tide by day or night. The entrance
and lower harbour can become rough
during ebb tides and strong south- 32 1
7
westerly winds. Berths up river at
Grid Irons, Penmarlam and Wiseman’s
are sheltered from these conditions. Point Neptune from
St CatherineÕs Castle
21' The harbour limit begins between St
Catherine’s Castle and Punches Cross
Quay
and extends 11km up to Lostwithiel.

ch
Moorings
34
' s R ea
In this area, the speed limit is 6 knots.
Enter the harbour on a north-north-
Boats of Fowey
an

easterly course then head north-east Mixtow


em

to the swing ground area off Fowey Mixtow Pill Pilot gig
W is

Town Quay. Wiseman’s Gig rowing has a long tradition in


93 Point
At night, keep in the white sector Fowey. The early pilots used to row
of the Whitehouse light until abeam of 5m the gigs to get out to the ships and
Polruan Castle (by day, you’ll see the 74 the first one there would get the work.
‘red rocket’ below the church tower). China Today, members of the Fowey River
The blue visitor moorings and Clay Works Gig Club complete all around the
pontoon facilities are mostly on the south west in their distinctive red gigs.
east side of the harbour. Arriving
vessels should contact Fowey Harbour
72
Troy
Patrol on VHF Ch12 to arrange a berth. Iso.G.2s These wooden keel boats are identified
Caffa Mill by the letter ‘T’ on the main sail and are
Bodinnick unique to Fowey. The first one was built
67
0 500
in 1929 for the daughter of Sir Charles
1 Hanson of Fowey Hall. The start of the
Berrill’s BY 66
metres 1930 season saw six identical boats on
Fowey Gallants SC 1
Albert the water, which led to the formation of a
5m

Quay class. Sir Arthur Quiller-Couch – a friend


wey

Fowey Tower
4 of du Maurier’s – was Commodore of
S. Fimbarrus Ch
r Fo

2F.R 63 Penleath Pt the Royal Fowey Yacht Club at the time,


Town
and had written novels called Troy. He
Rive

Royal Fowey YC Refuse


0 Quay Barge Pont Pill
50°20'N Radar/CCTV 7 07 was asked for and granted permission
Whitehouse Point 25
Iso.WRG.3s
2FR 22 1
to use the name for the new class.
28 (vert) Swing 3
Buoy RNSA
3 Brawn Pt Fowey River class OD
78
15 Slipway The River class is based on the Yachting
37 Polruan Pool World Knockabout dinghy designed by
Small Craft Mooring
Neptune Pt 76 Town 2F.G Reg Freeman in the late 1940s. The first
Mundy 27
Ca
Quay Shipbuilders Yard boat was built by Hunkins Boatyard at
Rks Po tles
13 lru Polruan for the local dentist. The fleet
Fl.R.2·5s an (ru)
St Catherine’s Pt Pt grew to 15 boats by 1957 and 36 boats
FI.G.5s Polruan
Fowey Lighthouse Lamp Rk by 1965, before almost disappearing.
LFI.WR.5s 74 NCI
Punch Cross However, since the 1990s over 20 new
25 Rocks boats have been built and many older
White house
3 64 (conspic) ones restored, and there is now an
73 Washing active racing fleet and class association.
3 88 Rocks 37
28
5m

27 3
5m

Wk 3
107 49
09 91 PA (Apr-Oct)
91
38' 46
4°38'W

Further afield
Vessels drawing up to 2m can proceed
to Lerryn or Lostwithiel with good local
knowledge (speak with the harbour
office first). As a rule, if you leave Fowey
two hours before a high water of more
than 4.5m, you should reach Lerryn
or Lostwithiel before high water. Blockhouse at Polruan
Fowey River class one designs

Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk 57


CRUISING
cruising
southerly wind – you’ll find a standing sea
which could be tricky, but apart from that
there are no nasties, and there’s a sector
light to guide you in.’
Out in the bay, a race is going on –
there are maybe 50 yachts of various
sizes, including the locally-built Troys.
Fowey has always been a busy port.
From pre-Roman times until the 13th
century, ships would visit to trade for the
tin that was panned throughout Cornwall.
It was also a key location for smuggling.
‘You can still see the metal stakes driven
into the cliffs, which they used escape the
revenue men,’ says Paul.
England became involved in a series of
wars from 1739 onwards, and ships would
regularly come in to ‘press’ men for the
Navy. By the 19th century, the harbour
was crowded with all sorts of ships, from
men of war and East Indiamen to privateers
and brigs supplying Nelson’s squadrons.
In World War II, the docks were rebuilt so The visitor pontoon near Bodinnick
Fowey could serve as a base for the Air
Sea Rescue service and a departure point limits so they could collect their dues.’ school at Polruan used to swim here, but
for American Forces on D-Day. Near the cross, Paul points out a lateral for decorum’s sake had separate coves.
We head back along the eastern side mark that indicates Lamp Rock. If you You can still swim here today, but if you’re
of the harbour, passing Punches Cross, find yourself this side of the channel, not arriving by boat you have to scramble
a white wooden cross on the rocks. ‘Up don’t hug it too closely, he advises, over the rocks from the blockhouse.
at the top you can see the ruins of a as the rock extends further underwater. Polruan school children still consider it
monastery,’ says Paul. ‘There are lots of Tucked behind Polruan blockhouse are a rite of passage to swim in the harbour.
theories about the cross, but I believe the two pretty beaches, known locally as boys’ Before they go to secondary school,
monks put it there to mark the harbour cove and girls’ cove. The kids from the they take part in an organised swim from

Enjoy afternoon tea in the gardens


of the Fowey Hotel where Daphne du
Maurier met with her mentor Sir Arthur
Quiller-Couch. Here, you can also see
the letters Kenneth Grahame wrote to
his young son, which later gave him
the idea for The Wind in the Willows.
Walk the ‘Hall Walk’ – a spectacular
four-mile circular walk through
woodland around Pont Creek, which
uses Bodinnick and Polruan ferries.
Garden lovers should visit the Eden
Project and Lost Gardens of Heligan.
Charlestown is like stepping back
in time. It’s also the setting for
18th-century Truro in BBC’s Poldark.
The Shipwreck Museum is excellent.
Mevagissey is utterly charming –
wander around, get fish and chips
Readymoney Cove from the sea and go crabbing. In the summer, you
can catch the ferry there from Fowey.
Things to do The National Trust house and
gardens are Lanhydrock are great.
Explore the Fowey Estuary the way On the South West Coast Path you
people used to – by boat. Hire a kayak can visit the daymark on top of Gribbin
at Encounter Cornwall in Golant, or take Head. This is open to the public on
the tender upriver as far as Lostwithiel, selected dates throughout the year.
stopping en route for coffee and cake See www.nationaltrust.org.uk.
in the delightful village of Lerryn. Guided walks run from Fowey on
Fowey museum is small but excellent, Kayakers in the harbour Tuesday (meet Fowey Town Quay)
and has lots of local maritime history. and Polruan on Thursday (meet
Readymoney Cove is a beautiful place beautiful beach and the site of on the Coal Wharf), both at 11am,
for a swim and rockpooling. Walk the Readymoney Cottage, the inspiration £5 adults, £2 children.
coastal path to Polridmouth – another for the Boathouse in Rebecca. n www.foweyheritage.co.uk

58 Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk


FOWEY
Polruan to Fowey. ‘There’s not a lot of
love lost between Polruan and Fowey,’
Paul says. ‘Polruaners say Fowey is the Anchorages
money side and they’re the sunny side, Anchoring is prohibited in or near the main navigational fairway or swing ground.
and Fowey folk call Polruan Little Russia Areas clear of moorings in the upper estuary or in Pont Pill may be used but must
as it can be very cold in the mornings.’ be attended at all times. Seek guidance first from the harbour office. Harbour dues
We head past a row of blue visitor for anchoring vessels are the same for those using a mooring.
moorings towards Pont Pill, where
you find visitor pontoons 1 and 2. The
Swinging Ground at the entrance to the Trailer parking
creek is where they turn the big ships. Available at Caffa Mill and Old
Occasionally, Paul will find a visiting yacht Station Yard car parks in Fowey
anchored here and have to wake the and at Penmarlam Boat Park.
skipper at dawn. ‘We don’t encourage
people to anchor in the harbour; they Launching facility
tend to go in inconvenient places,’ says Public facility at Caffa Mill in Fowey
Paul. ‘The spot might seem sensible, (harbour dues payable to Fowey
but we’ll have left it clear to swing a ship.’ Harbour). Fowey Harbour also
That said, Paul agrees there are nice operates a private launch facility
places for a bilge-keeler to anchor upriver at Penmarlam with casual access
towards Lerryn and Lostwithiel. Just talk C Toms & Son Boatyard in Polruan and payment at the entrance barrier.
to the harbour office first, as there are
salmon fishing nets and it’s useful to
know the channel and how it moves. Berthing Facilities
Harbour office Open 0900-1700
We continue up the estuary past PoLruan PooL weekdays and 0900-1300 Saturdays
Bodinnick where Paul points out Ferryside, Blue swinging moorings available for in the summer. Tel: 01726 832471.
the house that used to belong to Daphne vessels up to 15m. Vessels over this Freshwater At Albert Quay, Berrill’s
du Maurier’s family. Her son Kits now lives will be directed to yellow moorings Yard and Penmarlam Pontoons.
there, and waves to us from his garden. marked V2 to V5. Orange SBM Fuel Diesel pay-at-pump pontoon
The cottage is built into the cliffs and moorings are for smaller dayboats. upstream of Bodinnick car ferry.
only has three walls. It was here that Diesel and petrol also available from
Daphne du Maurier wrote her first novel, PoLruan PonToon C Toms & Son Boatyard in Polruan.
The Loving Spirit, though she never lived Shore-linked pontoon, short stay only Showers Fowey Gallants Sailing
in the house. Instead, she stayed with (two hours) for vessels on outside, Club, Royal Fowey Yacht Club,
her housekeeper on the other side of some tidal restrictions apply. C Toms & Son Boatyard and
the river, it being considered incorrect in Penmarlam Boat Park.
those days for a young lady to live alone. PonT PiLL Laundry C Toms & Son Boatyard.
On the western bank on the river is the Unattended vessels will be asked to Waste and recycling Facilities on
new self-service fuel pontoon. Just ahead use the blue fore and aft moorings most visitor pontoons with a central
of that, by the swinging ground, are two where possible. Pontoons 1 and 2 collection point on a pontoon in the
large wharves where the ships load the suitable for all vessels. entrance to Pont Pill.
china clay. The cargo is brought here by Sewage Pump-out facility available
rail and by a private haul road linking to underhiLLs at Berrill’s Yard pontoon.
the operations in Par. A little-known fact, Pontoons 3, 4 and 5 are suitable Weather forecasts Posted daily in
Paul tells me, is that the Queen uses that for all types of vessels. harbour office, and refer to Polruan
stretch of railway on the Royal Train. ‘It’s National Coastwatch Institution (NCI).
a beautiful railway. They’d stop the clay BerriLL’s Yard Water taxi Contact Fowey Water
trains, and she’d park up on the river St Shore-linked pontoon is short Taxi on VHF Ch6 or 07774 906730.
Winnow for her breakfast.’ stay only between 0800 and 1800 Tourist Information Located by
Wiseman’s Reach is the limit of the (two hours) for vessels on outside. the church. Tel: 01726 833616.
lower estuary, but before we head back Overnight stay chargeable. Web: www.fowey.co.uk.

aLBerT QuaY Marine services


Shore-linked pontoon short stay only Mixtow Marine Indoor boat storage,
two hours) for vessels on outside. launching and recovery, chandlery
and repairs. Based at Penmarlam
Grid irons Boat Park. Tel: 01726 870954.
Visitor berths on outside (west) only. C Toms & Son Boatyard
Boatbuilding, repairs, slipway, winter
PenMarLaM (MixTow) storage, chandlery, fuel, showers.
Shore-linked pontoon, visitors south Tel: 01726 870232.
side only. Showers, toilets and café. Fowey Harbour Marine Engineers
Mobile repairs. Tel: 01726 832806.
wiseMan’s reach SAL Marine Services FHC-approved
Three blue swing moorings available. divers. Tel: 01726 844749.

GoLanT, LerrYn and Yacht clubs


LosTwiThieL Fowey Gallants Sailing Club
Some drying berths or anchorages www.foweygallantssc.co.uk
are available but please check first Royal Fowey Yacht Club
with the harbour office. www.rfyc-fowey.org.uk
Doorways through St Catherine’s Castle ➜

Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk 59


CRUISING
cruising

towards Albert Quay, Paul shows me


Penmarlam pontoon, a peaceful shore-
linked pontoon in Mixtow, which is very
sheltered and has showers and toilets.
‘The café here is an absolute sunspot,’
he says. ‘You can have a drink or a meal
here, or walk the dog across the fields
to the pub at Bodinnick, and not worry
too much about other people.’
Just outside of Mixtow Pill on the river
is visitor pontoon number 6, known as
the Grid Irons. It’s also a sheltered place
to moor, with a footpath from the shore
into Bodinnick (though you’ll need your
tender or a water taxi to get ashore).
As we return to Albert Quay, I find myself
chuckling at Paul’s stories. There was the
occasion his colleague had to twice stop Mevagissey is easily visited by ferry from Fowey
a beautiful woman from skinny-dipping
off pontoon number 5 (it’s too dangerous The Fowey Estuary Why we love Fowey
to swim in the river, other than at Nestled within an Area of Outstanding Helen Luther
Readymoney Cove or the beach off the Natural Beauty, the Fowey Estuary is curator of the
has a wide variety of habitats and Fowey Museum
species. The seagrass beds in Polruan I was very little when
Pool are a nursery area for fish, and I met Daphne du
the rocky shore near Readymoney Maurier. She was my
Cove is a delight for rockpooling at brother’s godmother.
low tide. Crabbing is permitted on I remember going to Menabilly and
the shore-linked pontoons (please playing on Iggy, her husband Tommy’s
ensure you put plenty of seawater in boat. After reading The Loving Spirit,
your buckets and refresh it regularly he sailed up and down the coast to
as the crabs quickly use up oxygen meet this new author! Daphne wrote
in the water). messages to my dad, who was her
Families at Albert Quay Migratory fish including salmon doctor and friend. They’re in books
and sea trout travel through the that are now on display at the museum.
Esplanade). Another time, during the estuary to spawn upstream in the
filming of Poldark, he noticed they’d freshwaters of the River Fowey. Anne Willmore (below, left) runs
chopped the blade off the paddle The estuary is also a bass nursery the local bookshop Bookends
belonging to the actor Aiden Turner area. Dolphins, otters and seals I came for a day specifically because
to make it easier for him! are common sightings, and if you’re I was obsessed with Daphne du
Even today, the BBC is out filming. This a birdwatcher, keep an eye out for Maurier. It wasn’t
time it’s for the antiques show Flog It! kingfishers, herons, egrets, dunlin, enough – I kept
There’s a scene about boatbuilding at shelduck and if you’re lucky, you might coming back and
Peter William’s yard and later, Paul tells even spot an osprey. Log your wildlife eventually just
me they’ll be filming presenter Paul Martin sightings online at www.orks.org.uk. moved here.
rowing with the Fowey River Gig Club.
Presumably, this is a busy day for Paul, Lynn Gould (right)
but he shakes his head. Today is quiet. is a Blue Badge guide
Tomorrow he’s expecting the Silver There’s something about Fowey that
Whisper, a 140m cruise ship on her gets you. Walking the countryside that
circumnavigation of Britain. ‘She looks Daphne du Maurier talks about, you’ll
absolutely stunning when she’s in port. finding it unchanged because it not
She’ll drop two anchors, then some accessed by motorcar. Pridmouth
passengers will go ashore to Fowey, while is exactly as she knew it in the 1930s.
others will be bussed to the Eden Project.’
It’s clear Paul is fond of every vessel he Paul Thomas is the harbourmaster
welcomes into Fowey, whether a rowing When the previous harbourmaster
boat or a ship. In fact, he says the leisure retired, I held the fort. That was six
side is increasingly important. ‘You never years ago and I’m still here! The deal
know how long the commercial side was that I still get to do the piloting,
is going to last. The shipping is almost which I love. Basically I park the ships
exclusively to do with the clay, and we’re – that’s what I tell my mum – and then
working hard to find different cargoes to I take them out to sea, get on the pilot
bring through.’ boat and come back in. I like the mix
Fortunately, the leisure side shows no of commercial and
sign of slowing. With its historic villages, leisure. It’s nice to
tranquil moorings and romantic creeks, see a china clay
Fowey Harbour really is a special place. ship picking its
Where else can you watch Poldark, Readymoney Cove’s rocky shore is way through a fleet
be inspired by Daphne du Maurier and a delight for rockpooling at low tide of racing yachts.
eat breakfast downriver of the Queen?

60 Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk


PRACTICAL ROUNDING THE BILGES

Fairing the curves


Casting a critical eye over the project boat’s lines, David Pugh and
Ben Meakins set to work filling and fairing to make the hull smooth

L
ast month, we explained how
we built up the chine panels
on our project Secret 20 using
How to spot highs and lows
cedar strip and epoxy. Aided by
a little filler, this approach got us most By far the best tool for spotting sanding, run a hand over your work
of the way to completing the required irregularities is a critical eye. Get down low regularly to find small bumps and hollows.
curve, but they still needed fairing to to the surface you’re examining and look There are ways you can help your eyes,
get them to their final shape. at it from every angle and you’ll spot however. The instructions which come
Other areas which still needed careful problems that evade a simple glance. with the boat kit suggest drawing a grid
shaping were the angle between the keel Hands work well too: when you’re over the whole boat before using a
and the bottom hull panels, the stem and longboard (sandpaper attached to –
the transition between the 6mm midships you’ve guessed it – a long board) to give
hull panels and the 4mm bow panels. the hull an initial sand. The board will
Additionally, the entire hull needed bridge across any high points, removing
checking for high and low spots, and the grid, while leaving the marks
fairing as required. Fairing is one of those untouched in any hollows.
jobs that can go on for ever, with endless Mike Pickles, foreman at Harbour
rounds of filler and interminable sanding – Marine Services in Southwold and regular
and, to coin a phrase, you reach the ‘sod author of our ‘View from the Boatyard’
it and move on’ stage. We’re not quite column, recommends simply scribbling
there yet – there are a few more rounds of over the area to be faired before
filler to go – but it’s not far off! Longboards made short work of fairing using the longboard.

Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk 61


practical

It’s the same idea, but easier than drawing


a grid on the hull skin.
Another technique we found useful was
a laser level. These project a long, straight
line which when shone onto an irregular
surface shows any lumps and bumps
quite well. We found it works best when
the laser is angled obliquely to the
surface. A lower tech method is to use
strips of tape, which just like the camber
A laser level shone obliquely showed up stripe on a sail help to show if a curve is Masking tape stuck over the chines
any lumps or depressions on the hull skin fair or not. showed up any hollows or flats

Shaping Smoothing the panels


the chines A longboard
(sometimes known as
A set of templates had got us close to a torture board!) was
the shape we needed, but there were painful but effective
still some areas which needed
attention. Approximately half way
along the chine were some large flat
spots owing to there being insufficient
timber to completely build the curve,
and a few other errors were apparent
in other areas where we had been too
enthusiastic with the plane.

Beyond general fairing, there were three As they were small it had proved
main areas on the boat which needed impossible to make them continue the
special attention. The first is the transition gentle bend of the bottom panels, so we
A random-orbit sander sped up the from the midships bottom panels, which glued them in place and used a plane to
fairing of the chines are 6mm ply, to the 4mm ply bow panels. remove any high spots. As they were
This results in a 2mm step. mostly too high at the edges, we didn’t
Rather than adding more timber, we We removed the majority of the difference need much filler.
decided that the shape was close by using a long plane to taper the 6mm The third and final area was at the bow,
enough to allow us to make up the ply over a distance of around 40cm, where the bow panels meet the stem. The
difference with fairing filler. We used before filling any hollows with fairing filler. ply had scalloped quite badly here where
WEST SYSTEM low density The 4mm ply tends to scallop slightly we had used screws to pull it into shape,
microballoon blend in a stiff mix of around the fixings, so filler is inevitable. so we cautiously planed the top of the
epoxy to build up a layer of filler on Further aft, we had used two small 6mm bumps, taking care not to go through
the areas in question. After letting it panels to fill the gap between the more than one laminate of plywood, and
cure for 24 hours we sanded it back, midships panels and the aft bottom panel. filled the hollows.
first using a random orbital sander to
remove obvious high points, followed
by longboards and sandpaper pulled
like a strap across the chine.
This was mostly successful, but we
needed a further two applications of
filler on the largest flat area. Building
up smooth layers of epoxy is not easy
– if you make the mix stiff enough to
support thick layers of 10mm or more
then you risk a rough surface and
voids in the filler. A less stiff mix gives
a better finish, but you then need to
build up layers and ensure the
previous layer is clean and keyed to A longboard showed
up areas that needed
ensure good adhesion. extra filling

62 Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk


rounding the bilges

Keel to hull joint


We used a piping bag
to pipe in a long fillet
to secure and fair in
the keel battens

A filleting stick smoothed the seam well

The kit provides two long mouldings to end of a filleting stick proved ideal. The
ease the gap between the keel and hull. angle was still too steep, however, so we
We first dry-fitted them, pulling them into used the back edge of a putty knife to A mess of epoxy faired front of the keel...
place with long screws to check the fit form a curved transition on both sides
before removing them and gluing them using fairing filler.
back into place with epoxy. The final shape to make was the lead
The mouldings provide most of the into these mouldings at the forward edge
required curve, but as they don’t taper to a of the keel. We did this using more epoxy
feather edge there’s some work required and fairing filler, formed to shape as best
to fair them into the hull and keel on either we could when wet. We then finally shaped
side. it using sandpaper in a roll to ensure the
We found this was best done in two correct concave shape. The same
stages. The first was to make a tapered technique was used to fair the fillets we
fillet on either side, for which the square had applied along the length of the keel. ...which could then be sanded smooth

Shaping the stem Conclusion


This was possibly one of the most Fairing’s an odd sort of job, with much of
satisfying jobs on the boat so far. The what you do making the boat look worse
stem, running down to meet the keel, had rather than better as it starts to resemble a
been left square while building the hull, so patchwork quilt. However, running your
the challenge was to shape it to provide a hand over the result is certainly rewarding
pleasing angle between the two sides of as you feel a smooth, blemish-free surface
the hull. It also needed to be left square at beneath.
the top in order to accept the bowsprit The most satisfying job by far, though,
stemhead fitting. We used a spokeshave cut a ‘stopped was planing the stem. Suddenly this rather
We started by deciding the point at which arris’ on the stem agricultural, square timber took on new life
the square would begin to taper, then set as a shapely bow ready to carve its way
to work planing. Using a long plane take the timber to a point, before rounding through the water. It’s improved the
helped us to follow the angles set by the it off using a block plane and sandpaper. aesthetics of the bow immensely, and
bow panels and did most of the work low Further up the stem we had to be more is a reminder of what this boat’s
down on the stem and along the forefoot, circumspect, so started off by carving a meant to do – sail.
where we wanted a rounded shape 45° angle into the stem using a
between the two. We used the plane to spokeshave. After continuing this a few
inches down the stem, we drew a line
from this to an estimated waterline and
tapered the timber between the two points
to match using a plane.
Once we had the shape we needed, we
sanded the whole area to remove any
irregularities, easing any sharp corners as
we went to improve paint adhesion later
on. We also glued timber fillets in place at
the top of the stem to make it wider, ready
A long plane to transfer the hull angle to stem to acept the stemhead fitting.

Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk 63


Special

Scotland’s
Boat Show
Friday 13 October to Sunday 15 October 2017

Bigger and better: expansion sees new


layout for the UKÕs third-largest boat show

N
ow in its 31st year, Scotland’s
Boat Show is getting bigger
and better. Two key changes to
layout this year are designed to
expand on the success of last
year’s ‘Get On The Water’ theme and to
encourage more people to get involved in
boats and boating for the first time.
As the largest event of its kind in
Scotland and the largest brokerage show
in the UK, Scotland’s Boat Show 2017 has
a record numbers of new exhibitors and a
line-up of features and entertainment that
will draw thousands of visitors to Kip
Marina and Inverclyde.
MAIN and LEFT: boats
galore at Scotland’s
Expert advice Boat Show
The first change sees Riverside
Inverclyde’s ‘Get On The Water’ pavilion
expand to accommodate the new Sika Free taster sessions wheelyboat ‘Discovery’, sailing taster
Marine Stage and Theatre – the venue for The other major layout change sees the sessions will be available in the accessible
free presentations and lectures in creation of a bigger ‘on water’ area for the Hansa 303 dinghies, while Able2sail, who
association with Practical Boat Owner. RYA Scotland Free Taster Sessions which offer voyages for individuals who are both
On offer will be a series of themes allow visitors to try yachts, motor yachts, able-bodied or have disabilities, will have
ranging from expert advice on buying a RIBs, dinghies and paddle boards in the their yacht open for visitors – as will
second-hand boat to the Met Office safe environment of Kip Marina. Ocean Youth Trust Scotland.
explaining how to cope with heavy weather, With more than 350 visitors taking part in
and tips on how to inspect your ropes. the sessions last year, the bigger sailing Bargain boats
Also on hand in the pavilion will be area, together with RYA Scotland’s new Record numbers of high quality pre-
representatives from various owners’ online booking service, aims to owned boats are predicted by Roseann
associations and manufacturers who can significantly increase the number of Sweeney of brokers Michael Schmidt &
advise on how to start getting involved in participants in taster sessions across all Partners. ‘We’ll have the UK’s largest
every type water sport from sailing to age groups and abilities. display of used boats in one place at
powerboats, RIBs, jetskis, paddleboards, For mobility-impaired visitors, Clyde Scotland’s Boat Show this year,’ she said.
canoes or even model boats. Muirshiel will again be featuring the The show is a great place to see vessels
Photos: Scotland’s Boat Show

There’ll be plenty of thrills at the show Take the opportunity to try dinghy sailing for the first time

64 Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk


Boat show special

Free technical and seamanship advice


Sika Marine Stage in association
with Practical Boat Owner

Friday 13 OctOBer 2.00pm - 2.45pm


Marine invasive species
11.00am - 11.45am Sarah Brown of Clyde Marine Planning
reached the end of your tether? Partnership and C2W Consulting gives
David Mossman of Marlow Ropes an insight into the battle to keep Scottish
shows how to inspect your lines and waters free from invasive species – and
explains the key six signs of wear and explains what you can do to help.
tear to look out for. David is a former
professional sailor, experienced in rope 3.00pm - 3.45pm
design, development and testing. Boat insurance tips
Topsail Insurance MD Rob Stevens
12.00pm - 12.45pm gives an entertaining and informative
Making light of heavy weather talk on boat insurance tips and facts,
Met Office meteorologist Penny Tranter revealing situations where you think
shares her knowledge of planning, you are insured – but might not be.
preparing and reacting to weather on
the water, crucial to your decision 4.00pm - 4.45pm
making, safety and enjoyment. cruising with a family pet
Cruising Association member Derek
1.00pm - 1.45pm Lumb reveals the practicalities of
Practical demonstration of sailing with a seadog.
window bonding
Sika’s technical services expert 5.00pm - 5.45pm
Gareth Ross shows how to bond Sailing in the Baltic
plastic windows, including cleaning, Cruising Association member Colin
priming, and adhesive selection, Wilson shares his experiences of sailing
plus the do’s and don’ts. in the Baltic.

2.00pm - 2.45pm Sunday 15 OctOBer


Wild call – sailing around Scotland
Suffocated by a lack of freedom in 10.00am - 1.00pm
modern life, Martyn Murray sought an the cruising association Seminar
alternative. Falling in love with an old Half-hour talks on subjects such as
ketch in Ireland, he bought and restored sailing in the Baltic, sailing with a dog on
her enough to sail back to Scotland, board and insurance tips plus a
Scotland’s Boat where he spent two summers cruising demonstration of the association’s great
Show 2017 the Western Isles. app – CAptain’s Mate. Plus a chance to
win £3,000 worth of standing rigging
Where: Kip Marina, Inverkip, Saturday 14 OctOBer from Sta-Lok. Visit www.theca.org.uk to
Inverclyde apply for seminar tickets.
admission: FREE 11.00am - 11.45am
car parking: £5 per vehicle. Making light of heavy weather 1.15pm - 2.00pm
For more information visit Met Office meteorologist Penny Tranter Making light of heavy weather
www.scotlandsboatshow.co.uk shares her knowledge of planning, Met Office meteorologist Penny Tranter
or call 01475 521485. preparing and reacting to weather on shares her knowledge of planning,
the water, crucial to your decision preparing and reacting to weather on
making and the safety and enjoyment the water, crucial to your decision
of all shapes, sizes and prices, as last of your time on your boat. making, safety and enjoyment.
year’s guest speaker, sailing blogger and
PBO contributor Dylan Winter summed 12.00 - 12.45pm 2.15pm - 3.00pm
up: ‘It’s such a great boat show because demonstration of window bonding Boat survey step by step
there are boats here that I could afford. Sika’s technical services expert PBO expert Colin Brown, of CB Marine
‘There’s a boat for £3,100 and a Centaur Gareth Ross shows how to bond Services, reveals what a second-hand
for £8,500 – I bet I could offer him £6,000 plastic windows, including cleaning, boat survey actually does, what it can’t
and he’d consider it. And I like the fact that priming, and adhesive selection, do, and discusses common corrosion
it’s free to everyone.’ plus the do’s and don’ts. problems on board.

Welcome aboard 1.00pm -1.45pm 3.15pm - 4.00pm


Another new visitor is the 60ft Clipper Boat survey step by step. Marine invasive species
Round The World race yacht Taeping, PBO expert Colin Brown, of CB Marine Sarah Brown of Clyde Marine Planning
which will be welcoming visitors Services, reveals what a second-hand Partnership and C2W Consulting gives
throughout the show for those wishing a boat survey actually does, what it can’t an insight into the battle to keep Scottish
closer view of this magnificent boat and to do, and discusses common corrosion waters free from invasive species – and
find out how you can join in one of its problems on board. explains what you can do to help.
future voyages.

Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk 65


PRACTICAL

I
f you’ve ever been on a sea survival
course in open water your instructor
might have played a trick on you –
it’s called the crisp packet test.
They like doing this for some reason
and it involves allowing you to freeze in
the water for a while before you’re invited
back on board.
‘You look hungry,’ they caringly say
as they throw you a packet of
crisps. They then seem to find it
very amusing as you try to Step
open the packet.
You can’t, of course, because by
your hands are cold and you
have the apparent dexterity of a step
seal wearing mittens.
This seemingly trivial trick serves a
serious and highly useful purpose, of

Fitting a fold-away
course, in demonstrating beyond doubt
how quickly you can become victim to the
effects of cold-water immersion. You might
be in the water by choice – you might not –
but you won’t need much convincing after
the crisp packet test about the need to be
able to get yourself back on board with an
easily deployed ladder.
boarding ladder
Boarding ladders are obviously fitted for
convenience too, for stepping out of a
tender or getting back on board after a
Having a decent boarding ladder is handy
snorkel round the rocks or when checking
the prop.
for convenience but is also a very useful
However they should also be considered safety device. David Parker shows how to
for safety reasons, particularly with the
high freeboard on many modern yachts. fit a compact design under a swim platform
Even if you weren’t wet and weak from
being in the water it would be pretty tricky
to haul yourself back on board without
some aid. In fact they made a whole film consider this: perceived wisdom is that be at least two or three rungs below the
about it called Adrift. A group of friends when boarding from the water the bottom surface: that way if the boat rolls away or
goes for a weekend cruise on a new yacht. rung of the ladder should be at least a foot the transom suddenly pitches you can still
They jump in the water for a swim... but below water level – but in reality this is not get on the ladder. My previous ladder was
nobody thought to lower the ladder to enough. If you’re cold fitted on top of the
re-board the ship. I won't spoil the ending, and weakened, swim platform on my
but did you ever imagine a boarding hauling yourself up motorboat and
ladder could be a Hollywood villain? onto this first rung can swivelled down into
Even if you already have a decent, be very difficult. I the water. The swim
permanently installed boarding ladder, reckon there should platform itself is great
and if you have a
keel-hung rudder and
transom space a
short platform can
Telescopic fold-away ladder also be very handy –
fitted to swim platform
particularly when
boarding from a
tender, or for use as a tool shelf if you’ve
gone over the side to give the hull a scrub.
Although this ladder looked fine, when
you came to use it, it was too short and you
My old boarding needed a rope to haul yourself out.
ladder was a So I decided to fit a different one
swivel down altogether, which fits under the platform
arrangement
and can be deployed easily from the water
but only had
two steps: when when needed. Ideally this fold-away type
deployed it was would be fitted with the boat out of the
too short and water. But a haul-out just for that would be
you had to rig a
expensive and where’s the fun in it
rope to help pull
yourself out of anyway? In the end I fitted it with the boat
the water afloat and fortunately all went according to
plan. Here’s how I did it.

66 Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk


BOARDING LADDERS

This is the
1 new
boarding ladder
I decided to fit
to my boat. It’s
designed to be
attached under
the swim platform
and has four
telescopic steps The swim platform measures
which fold away
2 approximately 46in (1.18m) wide and
inside the main is 15¾in (400mm) deep. With the old
stainless steel ladder removed I thoroughly cleaned up
frame. the platform for accurate marking up.

This shows the ladder extended. When deployed in the water it will drop down 45in When extended, the ladder swivels
3 (1.15m). To avoid confusion during reassembly, I used tape to mark up the orientation
4 down on a pair of nuts and bolts set
of the treads, frame and the pivot point. inside a long slot running along the frame.

Test first with templates


This was one of those
onboard installation jobs
where I decided that it would
be time well spent to make
up a couple of simple
templates to help me
visualise how the ladder
frame would sit, particularly
in relation to the angle of the
Ladder steps are angled and fitted transom and the clearance
5 with a plastic tread to help grip. Tube required under the swim
section diameters reduce to fit inside one platform frame.
another, and care must be taken to ensure Plywood templates were
the telescopic action works smoothly. made up to replicate the
frame top and sides. Templates replicate the shape of the fixing frame
These included the frame’s
pre-drilled fixing points so by using these other two would fall in unsuitable positions
I’d be able to see clearly how things would on the swim platform. Holes for M6 nuts
best line up. and bolts too close to the edge of the
In fact once on the boat the templates timber slats would make them vulnerable
showed that although two of the pre- to splitting away.
drilled frame holes would line up well, the The most practical solution, then,
would be to
drill new holes
in the frame
itself to provide
alternative fixing
points each
Separating the main component parts side – and of
6 was simple. The two pivot bolts fitted course I could
with plastic bearing washers and Nyloc do this in
nuts were removed so the ladder part and the workshop
the frame could be fitted separately. The fixing holes could be marked up on the plywood template at home.

Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk 67


PRACTICAL

When the centre position was


8 established the next job was to
determine where the fixing holes would fall
The ladder would be installed under in relation to the wooden strips. The When the fixing points were marked
7 the platform but the fixing points forward hole would be OK, but note the
9 up, I drew a line through them to join
could be marked out from the top. one with the pencil in it is the one that falls up the circles. I’ve drawn a centreline
The first job was to centre the too close to the edge of the slat (see through the holes which gives greater
frame exactly mid-way along ‘Test first with templates’ on the accuracy before drilling – it’s rather too
the platform and make sure Step previous page). easy for a drill to wander around a marked
it sat square. circle, increasing the margin of error.
by
Using afromosia step I next drilled
10 hardwood I cut two
12 pilot holes
60mm x 30mm wooden support for the frame
backing mounts measuring 365mm long. fixing points. It’s
These mounts would be attached important to
underneath the platform, bolted through ensure accurate
the slats, and then the ladder frame be drilling at this
attached to them. stage with the
This would drill bit at 90° to
strengthen the the slats to
installation, spread Centre marks were drawn on the end ensure all the
loading and give
11 of each mounting piece and these fixings and
clearance under were lined up with the lines running components
the platform frame through the fixing points for each side of will line up
for the ladder to be the frame. The edges of each wooden during assembly
extended. mount were then drawn onto the platform. later on.

With the wooden mounts placed Three fixing holes for each side of the
13 back between their marks on the top
14 frame can then be drilled through the With one hole drilled through the
of the platform, I used the point of a thin platform to the size of the nuts and bolts –
15 mount using one of the previously
steel scribe to push up through the slats in this case M6 threads. Leave one hole scribed marks, the mount can then be
from beneath to pinpoint the position of the undrilled (you’ll see why later).The holes bolted in position through the appropriate
holes that’ll need to be drilled. are countersunk for the slot head bolts. hole in the slat above.

A pair of
18 these 12
gauge screws
will now hold the
wooden mounts
in position
underneath the
platform when
the nuts and
Now, however, the nuts need to be bolts are
17 removed to fit the frame. But what will removed. The
Once bolted in position, the other stop the timber mounts from falling off? bolts can also be
16 holes can then be drilled through This is where the remaining hole can be cut to length at
from the top of the platform. So now each used and a further hole drilled which is big this stage with a
wooden mount is secured by three bolts. enough for a 50mm long retaining screw. junior hacksaw.

68 Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk


BOARDING LADDERS

With the frame securely fitted, the


21
19 As the frame goes on the wooden
mounts so do the nuts and bolts
20 The holding screw can now be
removed and in its place the last hole
telescopic section can be fitted inside
it. For this part of the job my tender was
which help secure everything in place. for the final fixing point can be drilled right brought alongside so I could work from it
Note the lanyard tied to the frame at the through the platform, the mount and the to get right under the platform. Wash from
back of the picture. This was a moment frame itself. The nut and bolt on the left passing boats meant it needed to be tied
when you didn’t want any slip-ups. shows a length before it is trimmed. on securely.

The two pivot


22
bolts were
fitted either side of
the frame through
the top tubes of
the ladder. Nyloc
nuts require a
spanner/socket
each side for
tightening and I
would need both
hands. Therefore
one side of the
ladder was held in
place with a Check the ladder extends and
temporary nut
23 rotates down easily without snagging
Ladder
and bolt which on any fixings – this is why I cut the
specifications
could be overlong bolts to length. Nyloc nuts and
Various types of telescopic and done up pivot bolts must be done up securely –
swivelling ladders are available for finger tight. but not overtightened because this will
swim platforms. the example stiffen the sliding action of the ladder.
featured here is a four-step plastimo
design, model number 57036.
The frame dimensions are: overall width 303mm, Having a comfortable
frames sides width 78mm and the overall depth ladder makes giving the
318mm. The tread widths are 254mm to the boat a bottom scrape a lot
outside of the tube and the extended easier. in poor visibility,
ladder length is 1.150m. the extra length also
makes it much easier to
see when swimming back
to it from under the boat…
it doesn’t make the water
any warmer though!

Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk 69


PRACTICAL

WHAT TO LOOK FOR:

Boarding ladders
This is a bow ladder.
Boarding ladders come in all sorts of The steps can be
adjusted so they remain
styles, sizes and prices. David Parker horizontal to suit the
most convenient
inclination of the ladder
advises what you should look out for

B
oarding ladders can be
portable, fixed, hung on the
transom, a swim platform or
have a V-bracket for use on the bow.
I think a decent fixed ladder is far
superior because it is always there. The
hook-over crooks on some portable
versions can be very prone to
slipping but anything of
course, even an
emergency drop down
ladder is better than
nothing.
Some emergency When buying, check welds,
ladders can be rivets and hinges for rough
awkward to use at the edges. Stainless steel or
Monel rivets are better than
best of times and alloy rivets which can be Aesthetics may
perhaps impossible if vulnerable to affect your choice
your strength is ebbing corrosion and this folding ladder
and you have water trapped for smaller craft has
varnished wooden
in your oilskins. steps: it would sit
A friend was involved in just such a nicely on something
real incident. During a sail training like a classic daysailer
exercise he voluntarily went over the The typical stainless
side to free a mooring line snagged on steel folding boarding
ladder is available in various
the rudder. After 20 minutes in the water lengths. If you’ve space,
he freed it, but when he tried to get out This is a portable
deck-mounted 90° crooks will
ladder which can
he could hardly move. He was not only also provide handholds when
be deployed when
very cold but had 15kg of water down climbing aboard
needed. Designed to be
each leg trapped in his oilies. He had to lightweight it would be
be winched out of the water and could handy for carrying in a
tender, for example. It
only lift his legs when someone has plastic folding
Images courtesy of Plastimo and many thanks for their help with this article
released the tapes on his oilskins. crooks and plastic
So a ladder not only needs to be steps
securely fixed and easy to use, but you
should also be able to deploy it from
the water.
Having a retaining clip
located high up on a
Collapsible
fold-down ladder isn’t going can have
rope-type
to do you any favours – ladders are rough edges,
neither is a badly tied designed more for as can the ends
retaining lashing. emergency use. They of rivets, which you
stow in a very small
Check out build quality can feel if you run
space but, lacking
too. A cheaper aluminium rigidity, can be your finger over them.
ladder which stows away awkward to climb Avoid buying anything with
easily may be ideal as a unfinished edges that can snag
portable job, but aluminium suffers in a on clothes or fingers.
salt water environment, particularly on A final tip when buying a ladder for
unanodised areas where tubing has permanent installation: check out the fixing
been cut or modified. Look also at the kit, either in the chandler's or before going Quick release options are also
quality of a ladder's hinges, welds, joints to the boat. This isn’t just to make sure all available. The same typical D-shaped
bracket is used but with slots over a
and rivets. Are any critical parts plastic the nuts and bolts are there – it’s also mounting bolt fixed through a nylon
which could suffer UV damage over useful to have extra fixings just in case you hull pad. A tab is pressed to allow the
time and fail without warning? Hinges drop or lose anything over the side. bracket to slide up for removal

70 Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk


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All photos by David Harding

Drascombes: the
definitive dayboats?
Whether you view them with ambivalence or enthusiasm, the
ubiquitous Drascombes are still going strong after 50 years.
David Harding attended a rally to mark this special anniversary

A
ll too often it takes years or the time) was among the other nautical memory remains – and though I knew that
even decades before we celebrities to frequent this part of the they were indeed 420s – it was not until
come to appreciate the world. I saw him most recently while delving into the history of Honnor Marine
significance of something we following the hunt in the Cotswolds. Mud, for this feature that I learned of the
experienced as a child. We wellies and waterproofs still featured this company’s origins in the world of
were perhaps too young at the time, or we time but all were a different colour. performance dinghies. I have always
simply failed to make connections whose Had I known I was going to lurch into a associated Honnor Marine not only with
importance we subsequently came to precarious career – if you can call it a Drascombes – as have many people – but
appreciate. In any event, we had no idea career – as a nautical hack and snapper I also with the Ocean Bird. This latter
how privileged we were to have been in a would have taken more notice of some of association arose because my father
particular place with particular people. those early encounters. I have a clear bought one of these 30ft (9m) John
By the time I started meeting Ian Proctor recollection of standing in Honnor Westell-designed trimarans in the late ’60s
on the River Dart, at least I knew who he Marine’s showroom at Seymour Wharf in and kept it on a mooring at Dittisham,
was and had already owned several of his Totnes, looking at the bright red and blue close to the 40ft (12m) wooden prototype,
fine dinghies. Chay Blyth (not Sir Chay at decks of a pair of 420s. Vivid though that Matamona, but not quite in view from our

Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk 73


Boats
house. When we moved to the Dart An unlikely tale
from a village on the other side of Apart from designing the hugely
Dartmoor (coincidentally, just a few successful ‘Five Oh’ and, later, the Ocean
miles from John Watkinson’s home at Bird, John Westell played a major role in
Drascombe Barton), I was told that my the development and production of the
parents’ priorities were harbours, schools Drascombes. The question, you might
and houses – in that order. While they did well be asking, is how a builder with its
well with the harbour and the house, the origins in performance dinghies and
chaotic Bohemian excuse for a school unconventional trimarans came to take on
was not a good choice. Some of my a range of traditional-style dayboats,
contemporaries appeared to escape especially given the number of British
relatively unscathed. The rest of us weren’t yards that have fallen by the wayside
so lucky, to the extent that some ended up because the personal interests of the
as yachting journalists. directors and builders held sway over
Returning to one of the more positive commercial realism. Thankfully, Honnor
stories Totnes has to tell, every enthusiast Marine’s decision-makers never lost sight
of traditional dinghies knows how John of the reason why they were in business.
Westell came to design the 505. This was The Drascombe story began when John
the boat that, thanks to Westell’s specialist Watkinson built the prototype Lugger
knowledge of production building in the himself in glued ply – Katharine Mary,
then-relatively-new material of glass fibre, named after his wife – later part-building a
launched Honnor Marine. further 18 in conjunction with a local joiner
All three of the company’s original and the Kelly and Hall boatyard at
directors had been involved in the Bridgend on the River Yealm, in which he
development of another performance had invested some years earlier. Kelly and
dinghy, the Scorpion, which was Hall had taken one of the boats they
subsequently built by Westerly Boats in finished to the Earls Court Boat Show in
Rock (at the yard where you will now find 1968, selling it and 10 more.
Cornish Crabbers) alongside Ian Proctor’s It was clear that the Lugger – conceived
Osprey and Wayfarer. Although the 505 by John Watkinson as a boat for himself
was the boat that gave Honnor Marine a and his family – was finding an appreciative
kick-start, having the licence to build the market among those who shared their
420 in the UK added some serious enjoyment of coastal sailing in a simple,
production volumes. It’s not often British shallow-draught open boat that was
boatbuilding has had occasion to be roomy, versatile and easy to trail. The years earlier. Appalling weather and lack of
grateful to the French (twice over in this Watkinson family had already sampled comforts were among the factors that led
instance, given the pedigree of the 505 offshore cruising, having sailed to the to their coming home and leaving the boat
and the design of the 420). Mediterranean in a 13-ton ketch a few in the Med: day-sailing seemed a much
better way to enjoy their time afloat, as
many of us have subsequently found even
A Dabber at the double, if it might have taken us a few years to get
showing that surfing there. Kate made it clear that she disliked
is not the exclusive being clouted on the head by the boom,
preserve of the Coaster breathing in engine fumes and having to
endure bad weather on long passages.
She wanted a day-sailer so she could ‘go
home to my own bed every night’.
In designing a boat that would keep the
family sailing together, John gave the
Drascombe a loose-footed mainsail and
an outboard in a well at the stern. The
design kept the off-putting elements of
boating to a minimum while providing
plenty of appeal.
The rate at which orders were soon
flooding in made it apparent that building
in wood was not going to be fast enough.
That’s why, in 1968, Watkinson
approached Honnor Marine to ask if
they would be interested in producing
the Drascombe Lugger in GRP. It was
refreshing – and perhaps a little
surprising – when his proposal was
greeted positively. After the switch to
GRP construction, further changes were
inevitably made to the Lugger over the
years including, perhaps most obviously,
the switch from lug rig to gunter, though
the lug more than served its purpose in
nomenclatic terms. The story is that it took
a long and convivial evening with friends
and several bottles of cerebral lubricant at

74 Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk


Drascombe boats

Left Some of the 50-odd Drascombes at


the Weymouth rally setting off for Lulworth
BeLoW on board Siesta, Peter tiplady’s
original Drifter

Katharine Mary, the original Drascombe


Lugger from 1966, and right, at the
Weymouth rally

Drascombe Barton before it was decided


that ‘Drascombe’ was the obvious choice
for what would these days be called the
‘brand name’. Had the boat not had a lug
rig, one wonders what the ‘model name’
might have been and whether anything
else would have done half as well. Despite the extra length, she was a mere when the Scaffie came along in 1979 as a
4in beamier than the Lugger and, at 880lb baby Drascombe for single-handed sailing.
Tons and Luggers (400kg), only marginally heavier. Then it was time to replace the Cruiser
Once Honnor Marine started building in Next among the better-known models in Longboat with the Coaster, leaving the hull
GRP, numbers took off: they averaged 100 the range came the 15ft 6in (4.7m) Dabber, and rig virtually the same but making the
Luggers a year for the first 10 years. then the Drifter. With her long shallow keel cockpit smaller, adding a bridgedeck and
However, it took barely a year for and twin bilge plates, plus a small but changing the cabin.
Watkinson and Westell to see the potential fully-enclosed two-berth cabin and the Ready to explore a new market was the
for a bigger version: stretching the Lugger option of an inboard engine, the Drifter Gig, 25ft (7.62m) long and intended to
by just over 3ft produced the Longboat was more small cruiser than big dayboat. take over where the Royal Navy’s
(21ft 9in/6.63m), which Honnor Marine More than 20 years after the last one was Montagu Whaler had left off. Watkinson
started building in 1970 either as an open built came the Drifter 22 (tested in PBO July was familiar with the Whaler from his time
boat or in Cruiser form with a small cabin. 2009) which remains part of Churchouse in the Navy, as was David Thomas (the
Like the Lugger, the Longboat was also Boats’ Drascombe range today. Merchant Navy in his case), who drew
built in wood by Norman Whyte, John Kerr The introduction of new models further upon it for inspiration in his design of the
and, principally, the Elliot brothers. up and down the size range continued Liberty and Minstrel for Hunter Boats.

Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk 75


Boats
Other Drascombe models over the Drifting a deux: a Drifter 22 (blue
hull) and an original Drifter,
years have included the Peterboat
showing the difference between
(double-ended and built in three sizes in two designs 30 years apart
wood only) and the Launch, based on the
hull of the Dabber but with just a steadying
sail, propulsion coming from a small
inboard. Introduced a year later was the
Driver, longer than the Launch and
designed to sail – unlike two other river
boats, the Henley and Marlowe.
That the success of the Drascombes
had a massive part to play in the history of
Honnor Marine is undeniable. Like every
boatbuilder, however, the company went
through rough patches as well as smooth
and also moved premises a time or two.
From Totnes, it was just a few miles down
the road to a new home in Staverton.
Later, Luke Churchouse, one of the
original directors, set up on his own in
Wales before Stewart Brown took over
in 1998 from Luke’s son, Jeremy, and
moved Churchouse Boats to Hampshire.
Drascombes were also built for a while by
McNulty in Newcastle.

Rallying calls
The nature of the Drascombe boats – and
their owners – makes them ideally suited
to getting together on sociable rallies: Here’s another of the
they’re easy to trail and, with their shallow Coasters showing
draught, can explore creeks and rivers what they can do
that others simply cannot reach. Beaching downwind when the
breeze picks up.
for picnics, barbecues, fun and frolics or
simply enjoying the tranquillity is, for
many, a large part of what owning a
Drascombe is all about.
An active association – founded and, for
many years, run, by Luke Churchouse
– organises up to 30 rallies a year in
locations ranging from Cornwall, the
Solent, the Norfolk Broads and the Lake
District to country canals, Wales and
Scotland. In 1997, the rally at Calshot to
mark the 10th anniversary of the
association and 30 years of Drascombe
attracted 90 boats. An active contingent in
Holland organises its own events. Dutch
owners are often welcomed at British
rallies too, but want to make sure anyone
travelling to Holland is under no illusions
about what to expect. While we all know
that sailing in Holland can be wonderful,
the people are friendly and the sun can
shine, one Dutch rally for later this year
promotes itself thus: ‘grey, wet, cold, often
foggy, sometimes frosty...’
To experience a Drascombe gathering
and get to know the boats a little better, I
accepted an invitation to attend the major
rally of the year at the WPNSA in
Weymouth to mark 50 years of
Drascombes. After a dinner on the
Thursday evening to kick off the event, Longboats and Longboat Cruisers, lots of have wished for a more knowledgeable
which was supported by Churchouse Luggers, a Gig, 17 Coasters, five Dabbers, host when it came to matters Drascombe.
Boats, everyone reconvened the following and four Drifters and Drifter 22s (one of the Peter has been an active member of the
morning for the hop of eight miles or so to latter being Stewart Brown’s, which I association for many years, having started
Lulworth Cove. On a beautifully sunny tested in 2009). with a Dabber and moving on via a
morning in early July, a stream of tan sails Coaster to the Drifter. Before buying the
made its way out of Portland Harbour and Drifting with purpose Coaster he tried a Longboat Cruiser on a
downwind towards the chalk cliffs of My ride for the day was with Peter Tiplady rally but decided he preferred the Coaster
Lulworth. The fleet included half-a-dozen in his original Drifter, Siesta, and I couldn’t because the combination of the

76 Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk


Drascombe boats

All friends together: a Cornish Shrimper flanked by a Drifter 22, a Coaster and a Dabber

bridgedeck and the smaller cockpit offers Longboat Cruisers


more resistance to flooding. As for the came with a variety
Drifter, its performance surprised me, of window patterns
especially on the beat back to Weymouth. but can usually be
identified by the
Once you have accepted that you will square cabin profile
inevitably make some leeway, you can
enjoy sailing a boat that’s nicely balanced
and both faster and more responsive to
tweaking than you might expect.
When Drascombe owners change boats,
like Peter they tend to move to another
Drascombe. Some switch allegiance but
so enjoy the Drascombe way of life that
they still join in the rallies. At Weymouth,
two ‘honorary Drascombes’ included a
Cornish Shrimper and a Winkle Brig.
Many owners trail their boats to rallies. Reasons to be cheerful see their appeal. For a start, they have
Others think nothing of hopping along the The Weymouth rally was quite an more performance potential than I had
coast and making a few overnight stops. eye-opener for me. I have been aware of appreciated. The long, light hulls don’t
Peter was among several to sail from Drascombes for ever: after all, I grew up need a lot of persuasion to slip along
Ashlett Creek in Southampton Water. with them on their home patch. But, apart surprisingly well. If you were to give a
Not having a cabin doesn’t stop from testing the Drifter 22 a few years ago, Longboat a little tweaking in the rig and
Drascombes from venturing further afield I must admit to never having taken much centreplate departments, for example, I’m
either. Many PBO readers will remember notice of them. While these greeny-hulled sure it would surprise a few people. At the
Webb Chiles and his near-complete global dayboats with their short rigs, tan sails same time, to do too much of that would
circumnavigation in his Lugger, Chidiock and sedate performance were part of the be to miss the point. The boats and the
Tichborne (he actually sailed two Luggers scenery wherever I went in the South association between them offer you the
on the trip). Another intrepid Lugger owner West, they didn’t really capture the opportunity to go to places you probably
sailed from England to Australia, and attention of someone who was more into wouldn’t otherwise go and to sail with
further Atlantic crossings have been made. crossing oceans and racing dinghies. people you might not otherwise meet.
Reassuring though it is to know that you They weren’t even seriously considered Those unfamiliar with the rally areas can
have such a capable vessel, most when the family decided to buy something learn from others who have been there
Drascombe owners enjoy their boats for to sail on the Dart: a Devon Yawl was our before which tree to tie up to, where to
what they were conceived to be: simple, choice. Now, however, I’m beginning to anchor or dry out and where you can step
civilised and sociable day-sailers-cum- ashore without sinking in the mud.
weekenders that allow you to nudge into Offshore cruising (or just cruising in
the shallows and sleep under the stars
Contacts an offshore yacht) might be seen as
without all the hassles and discomforts Drascombe builders more aspirational but it involves a lot
that Kate Watkinson so disliked. Stewart Churchouse Boats more time, cost, hassle and discomfort.
Brown conveys the delights of this sort of www.churchouseboats.co.uk Thank goodness Kate Watkinson said
boating on his ‘Drascombe Quirky Page’, Drascombe Association exactly what she thought of it and that
which he has run since handing over www.drascombe-association.org.uk John not only listened but also did
Churchouse Boats to new owners in 2013. something about it.

Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk 77


PRACTICAL

Fitting a silencer to
a diesel boat heater
Ben Meakins installs a
new silenced exhaust
for his Eberspacher
D1LC diesel heater

H
eaters are a brilliant addition to a
boat – they keep the inside dry
and warm, which prevents mould
and mildew forming, and can extend
your sailing season into the cold and
wet months.
They can, however, be somewhat
antisocial. Unsilenced exhausts give rise to
a roar akin to an idling jet engine, which
has been known to spoil the tranquillity of a
peaceful anchorage. Just to walk down a
pontoon in a Scottish spring or autumn is
to experience what amounts to a
symphony of diesel heaters. ABOVE:
Help is at hand, however. Heater Gas-tight marine
silencer
manufacturers including Eberspächer and RIGHT: Automotive
Webasto supply exhaust silencers which silencer –
will cut the noise down considerably. dangerous for
I was a little worried about the state of the marine use
exhaust on my 1992 Eberspacher D1LC
diesel heater, and had never been happy
with the loud roar it made at full chat, so the last thing you want is doesn’t need
decided that while replacing it I may as well for exhaust fumes to be to be,’ he said.
add a silencer. pumped in with your ‘If fitted in a boat
But it’s not quite as simple as you might heated air. the heater’s exhaust
assume. The vast majority of diesel heater Eberspächer UK’s Peter gas will be emitted into
exhaust silencers found online are Collard has some wise the boat while the heater
designed for road vehicles. The marine words for those is running, bringing with it
ones are much more expensive, currently considering a quick, deadly carbon monoxide.
costing around £260. cheap deal online: ‘Also, the silencer box is not thermally
But before you plump for a cheap ‘There is a worrying trend for insulated. Again, it’s designed to go outside
silencer off eBay beware: vehicle silencers people to buy vehicle heating of a vehicle so doesn’t need to be. If fitted
are designed to be mounted outside the components and fit them to their boat into a boat this component will be hot
vehicle and are not gas tight. Boat heaters. The vehicle components can be enough, when the heater is running, to
exhausts tend to be in an enclosed locker temptingly cheap but they may come with cause severe injury to anyone touching it
that often is linked to the living space – and a heavy penalty,’ he said. and will be hot enough to melt sails,
‘A commonly sought after part is a dinghies, fenders and anything else that
silencer for the heater’s exhaust system. comes into contact with it. In certain
Online they are commonly sold as a circumstances this could lead to a fire.’
small stainless steel silencer box, but The more expensive marine silenced
unfortunately most sellers don’t state exhaust, Peter explained, is 2m long and
that this particular silencer is not suitable includes a flexible silencer 500mm long. It’s
for marine use. totally gas tight and double lagged. It will be
‘A vehicle heating silencer is designed to a lot healthier, safer and maybe a lot
be fitted beneath a vehicle and do a specific cheaper in the long run. Their new heater
job – to slightly cut down the higher pitched packages come with the silenced exhaust
noises associated with combustion, not as standard. So, fully cognisant of the
totally silence the exhaust. dangers of automotive silencers, I duly
You can fit a silenced exhaust to all The silencer itself is NOT gas tight: it’s ordered a proper Eberspächer marine
models of Eberspächer air heaters
designed to go outside of a vehicle so it exhaust kit and set to work...

78 Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk


FITTING A SILENCER

First step was to remove the old exhaust. This was a simple The standard exhaust comes in a 2m length, and I’d need
1 matter of removing the lagging, undoing the two Jubilee clips
2 the full length for my installation. It consists of a stainless
and attempting to pull it off the exhaust stub and the skin fitting. This pipe with a silencer sealed towards one end. It’s all insulated
wasn’t too hard, but on corroded systems might require a hacksaw. inside a sheath and then goes inside a length of air ducting.

Make sure you are using proper hose


3 clamps. Simple worm drive Jubilee
clips aren’t good enough for this type of
application – a heavy duty stainless clamp
that applies pressure more evenly and that
can be tightened enough to crush the pipe
onto the spigot is important.

It’s a good idea to use exhaust paste The new exhaust is now clamped on. Pull the lagging back to allow installation, before
4 such as Firegum at either end. This
5 re-installing to cover the hot exhaust pipe once the ends are clamped on. I then used
aids installation by lubricating the joint, but an extra length of lagging to wind around the exposed pipe end and clamp, securing with a
will then set hard once heated and make twist of copper wire for extra safety. The pipe can then be secured with brackets to ensure it
the joint more secure and gas-tight. can’t move and melt or set fire to anything – like most exhausts, it gets extremely hot.

SILENCED EXHAUST MAKES A BIG DIFFERENCE

I took a reading with an iPhone app before


and after, held 10cm above the exhaust.
With the old, unsilenced exhaust, it
averaged 91.4dB. With the new it averaged
79.4dB. That 12dB is enough to make an
appreciable difference – remember that
decibels are a logarithmic scale, so the
perceived volume is approximately halved.
Walking down the pontoon you can now
hear a gentle hum, whereas before there
was an intrusive roar. It’s made a big
difference and I no longer feel guilty about
firing up the heater in a quiet anchorage! BEFORE The reading averaged 91.4dB AFTER A much lower 79.4dB average

Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk 79


learning from experience

Head
over
heels
Peter Stone recalls
falling from grace
due to a loose rope

H
aving always considered one
of the riskier parts of sailing
getting to and from my yacht,
the idea was reinforced a
couple of years ago when
I helped rescue four middle-aged
gentlemen whose dinghy had capsized
returning from a pub in south Devon.
One man was trapped between two
yachts, slowly being pushed under the
water by the increasing tide. Thankfully,
the incident had a happy outcome and
was covered in a yachting magazine letter
from the crew of a nearby yacht, which
had been unable to offer any effective
assistance from their elevated position
on the deck of their boat.
Consequently, when paddling back
and forth to my own boat, I consider
the conditions and risks, aiming to
make best use of the weather and
tide for each journey and allow for
any potential dangers that might arise.
On one particularly memorable
occasion, anchored in Strangford Lough
in County Down, I had to get Bob – my
departing crew – ashore to catch a bus
to the airport. He had to return back to of single-handed sailing before my next I realised that the ladder was out of my
normality after a week sailing from Wales crew joined me in Scotland. reach, and I looked down to assess where
to Northern Ireland. I then had a week Having said goodbye to Bob, I did I was going to hit the pontoon, 10ft below.
some shopping for perishable foods that There was an 18in space between the
I needed for the following week. Heading pontoon and the quay supports, which
About the Author back to the dinghy pontoon, I took a few I decided was a better option to fall into.
Peter Stone started sailing dinghies photographs before climbing down the I twisted my body, turning so my right leg
in his teens, but really developed wall ladder which started just below would impact the pontoon rather than my
his interest when he ‘volunteered’ the level of the quay. Luckily, there infirm left one, which tends to break when
to crew Service yachts while was a rope tied around two bollards on I fall on it. I reached up towards the fixed
serving in the Royal Navy. He now the quay, which had proved useful as end of the rope with my left hand, trying
spends most summers sailing his a handhold during the earlier ascent. to pull myself as high as possible, keeping
Degero DS33 between Scotland and However, as I grabbed the rope, the the shopping aloft while trying to angle
Brittany, depending on the weather quay started to fall away from me and towards the gap and make a water entry.
and availability of crew. I realised the rope was no longer secured Tom Daley would not have been
to the bollards. Time seemed to slow as impressed with the way I hit the water,

80 Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk


head over heels

radio was splashproof, it also looked


fine. Luckily, the water had only touched
the bottom of my lifejacket, so the
auto-inflate had remained dry and not
initiated. The bag of supplies looked
mainly undamaged, but the cabbage,
looking a little bruised, prompted
me to check my thigh.
The cold water had slightly numbed
my leg but as my hand couldn’t feel
any cuts and didn’t come away red,
I guessed that I hadn’t broken the
skin – although, from the tenderness,
I was pretty certain my thigh would hurt
come the morning.
I decided the hanging rope wasn’t going
to be a hazard and the best thing would
be to get back to my boat and make like
a cat, rinsing myself (and my immersed
clothes) in the shower. Carefully untying
the dinghy, I motored back and stripped
off in the cockpit, seeing an impact mark
on the sleeve of my jacket that set off
a pain in my left arm. It seemed funny how
my mind could ignore pain until prompted.
Using the miracle of the mobile phone,
I took some pictures of the damage on
the back of my leg – I’ll spare you those –
which proved I was going to hurt for a few
days, but at least there were no wounds
that required attention. After a shower,
I had a hot sweet tea and opted for a
snooze to let the adrenalin work its way
out of my system. Two hours later, I awoke
feeling a whole lot better but rather foolish
about making such an error. At least there
was no permanent damage, other than
to my previous feeling of invincibility.
I had boiled cabbage that night,
otherwise it would have been off the
following morning. Shame the bruising
on my leg took a lot longer to remedy.

LESSONS LEArNEd

A
fter analysing the
event, I wondered
what I could have
done differently.
In the first instance,
I had assumed that having used
the rope three times already
for a handhold that it would
be okay again, but we all know
what assuming leads to – and
making a glancing blow on the pontoon to climb back up the ladder and re-secure next time, I’ll check before use.
with my right thigh. Still holding on to the rope. After a few seconds further Also, I guess that lowering the
the rope, I managed to limit my immersion thought, I decided that would be tempting bag of provisions down to the
to about 3ft. There was a convenient fate. And so, realising I was actually in pontoon with a rope would have
cross member between the quay supports a fair bit of shock, I sat down to let my left both hands free for my own
which I used to climb out of the water and, heart rate slow and my head clear while descent, and I might have been
still holding on to the rope, I swung across I carried out a damage assessment. able to grab the ladder had I not
to the safety of the pontoon that only a few The water had only come up to the lower been hindered by the weight
seconds earlier had been such a threat to pockets of my jacket, and as I was of the bag. Apart from that, I’ll
my wellbeing. wearing shorts and sandals, my clothes just keep quiet about making
Like a cat that’s fallen off a roof, I looked would rinse out easily. I had sensibly put such a silly mistake that
around to see if anyone had noticed my my mobile phone in a waterproof cover fortunately didn’t cause more
performance – but there was nobody so that would be okay, and as my VHF than a bruised ego and body!
around that I needed to reassure of my
health. Unlike a cat, though, I did not start *Send us your boating experience story and if it’s published, you’ll receive the original Dick Everitt-
cleaning myself, my first thought being signed watercolour which is printed with the article. You’ll find PBO’s contact details on page 5

Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk 81


Practical

Making the
perfect
scarf joint
Step
by
step

Chris Hawes designed and built a jig for


making multiple perfect scarf joints

I
built my first boat at the age of 15 length, as ply was only affordable in 8ft x
largely on my bedroom floor. It 4ft sheets at the time.
was an International Moth made I designed this jig to ensure I made a
from 3mm exterior plywood held good straight scarf joint. I am sure it is not
together with fishing twine and glass unique and many cabinet makers will
tape – much the same construction as have much the same design.
the Mirror Dinghy. Having read the article about scarfing
A traditional
One of the things I needed to do was to the stringers for the project boat in PBO, long plane
end-join the plywood to make an 11ft here’s a tip to make the job simpler.

E
A C D

Basic jig construction Finalising the jig Positioning the plane bearer
1 Almost all woodworking jigs are
2 Turn the jig over and clamp it into the
3 Place a straight edge on the arris
simple, cheap and very quick to make, Workmate, or overhanging the end of your (corner) of the jig base board and the side
and this one is no exception. workbench. You will need two pieces of stop. Slide the plane bearer on the side
A: The main support board. I used MDF. the timber to be planed, each about stop until it just touches the edge. Mark it.
It needs to be about 100mm wider than 100mm long, to use as side stops, plus a
the width of the set of timbers to be thin piece of material to be the plane
planed and about 1200mm (3ft 11in) long bearer. The thinner this is, the shorter can
to give good support. It should have a be your plane. I used a piece of 5mm wall
good clean square edge. cladding. A piece of thin plastic (a ruler) or
B: A longitudinal clamping piece. This Tufnol would do.
should be screwed and glued to the The longer the scarf the stronger it will
underside of A with its edges parallel. It is be, but also the longer the plane you will
used to clamp the jig into a Workmate. need. Multiply the thickness of the timber
C: Stop end support. An offcut from B for you will be planing (in this case 15mm) by
supporting the temporary end stop. the slope, ie if you want a 1:10 slope,
D: Stop end hinge support. Another mark a pencil line 150mm in from the end
offcut from B fixed flush to the end of A. of the jig. Fixing the jig
E: End stop. This is used only when Fix the first side stop such that the edge
4 Place the plane bearer on the side
loading the jig with the timbers to be facing the end of the jig is on the pencil stops on the pencil marks. Ensure it is
planed. It is screwed into D such that it line. Measure off the number of pieces of parallel to the end of the jig and screw it
can be swung out of the way whenever timber you want to process at a time and down. Do not glue; you might need to
work starts. fix the second side stop. loosen the bearer to load the jig.

82 Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk


MAKING THE PERFECT SCARF JOINT

Filling the jig


5 With the end stop in
position, slide the timber The new Axiom MFD from Raymarine is reinventing
to be planed into the jig navigation. With faster performance, intuitive
under the bearer. Clamp
the timber to be planed to operation, and leading-edge technology, Axiom
the jig further away from delivers unmatched awareness, above and below
the bearer such that it
the water line.
cannot slip when it is
being planed.

Start planing
6 Swing the end stop
out of the way or remove
it completely. You can
remove most of the slope
with an electric planer, if
you have one, until the
feather edge is about
1-2mm thick. Make sure
you keep the back end of
the plane supported on
the bearer to end up with the correct angle.
When you are getting near the end swap to a long plane.
The distance between the blade and the rear end of the plane
must be longer than the edge of the jig and the bearer.

Finished items
7 Stop planing
when the feather edge NEW Touch-Screen Multifunction Displays
www.raymarine.co.uk
is about 0.5mm thick.
Remove the finished Images for illustrative purpose only

timbers. The slope


should be perfectly flat
and the edges at true
right angles. Glue end
to end and repeat.
seamanship

If you would like David to


help with your sail problem,
call 01202 440820

Turning tightly
with a long-keeler
the run, stern-in to the main walkway. In a
If you need to persuade a boat with a full- south-westerly, the wind would be blowing
from her starboard beam. It would be
length keel to spin through 90° and reverse pushing her against the finger, but
perhaps making life less challenging than
into a windward berth, you will probably need in a north-easterly, which is what we had
on the day. Motoring forward out of the
a bow-thruster, says David Harding berth and turning hard to port with a stiff
wind from the port side might test the
skipper’s nerves in a fin-keeler. The
opposite pontoon isn’t that far away. In a
boat like North Star it’s something you

O
wners of long-keelers Challenging though Mike’s marina was
are used to challenges for a boat like his, it was manageable – at probably wouldn’t even want to attempt.
in confined spaces. We least in fairly calm conditions. Letting the boat weather-cock and then
last visited this subject in For Alan Ward’s Fisher Northeaster in reversing out might be a safer approach in
PBO December 2014, when I joined Titchmarsh, on the other hand, life without any breeze. Unlike some boats of broadly
Mike Farquharson-Roberts on his a bow-thruster simply wouldn’t be similar style, North Star has a keel that
Voyager 30 in Gosport. possible. We met Alan and North Star in runs the full length of the hull with no hint
Our biggest challenge – and one faced September’s PBO when we looked at of a cut-away towards the bow. As we
by many long-keelers – was steering in ways to make tacking faster and more found under sail, turning corners is not
astern: once the bow had started to swing positive. There was another potentially what she was designed to do.
more than a degree or two, it was off. The challenging aspect to handling North Star, Getting back into the berth in a
answer was to keep a close eye on the too: getting in and out of the berth. But south-westerly might be possible if you
bow and to make any necessary whereas under sail I had been able to were to go just upwind of the finger
corrections with the wheel as early as come up with some ideas to help – and pontoon and let the wind blow the bow to
possible. Otherwise it’s normally a matter two pairs of hands were useful anyway – port before going astern. In a north-
of going forward again to re-align the Alan performed the marina manoeuvres easterly it’s hard to think of an approach
boat, then continuing in reverse and on his own with such adroitness that there that would give you any chance, certainly
allowing space in case the prop-walk was no need for me to do anything on without at least half-a-dozen helpers on
takes you the wrong way until you gain board. I could stand on the pontoon to board and ashore who are used to
steerage-way. observe and photograph. handling lengthy warps.
In this instance there was no bow- Thankfully Alan has a bow-thruster to
thruster, so we had to do things the Sharp corners complement the 50hp Nanni with its
traditional way. Warps, and knowing how North Star is berthed port-side-to on a three-bladed prop. You still need to know
to use them, can also come in handy. finger pontoon near the enclosed end of how to use this extra help, though.

84 Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk


turning tightly with a long-keeler

Leaving the berth

North Star in her berth, secured by forward and aft springs


1 and breast lines. The wind is on her port beam, blowing her Alan has rigged up a short central spring so he can drop the
off the pontoon.
2 forward and aft springs.

He now goes aft to release the stern line… …then forward to pull the bow in with the bow line before
3 4 dropping it too

Next it’s back amidships to release the centre spring on the The wind has already given North Star some clearance from
5 way into the wheelhouse
6 the pontoon…

…so Alan can motor forward, engaging the bow-thruster The bow-thruster combined with tickover in ahead and full
7 as he goes (note the turbulence in the water visible under
8 port rudder has allowed Alan to turn through almost 90°
the ensign staff). while barely moving forward.

Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk 85


SEAMANSHIP

…and getting back in

Moving forward very gently, Alan starts the turn to port with
Alan turns around to come back. This time the wind is
2 the bow-thruster. There’s only another boat-length or so to the
1 helping, by encouraging the boat to weather-cock. end of the run, so no easy escape route with the wind from astern.

More bow-thruster is needed to ensure the boat is parallel Alan gets it spot on and starts to reverse into the berth…
3 with the pontoon by the time the stern is level with its end.
4

The right-handed prop encourages the stern to port while This is looking good. Using the rudder won’t help in this
5 the bow-thruster compensates for the wind on the bow,
6 situation but the bow-thruster is used to determine the angle
which is not in the lee of the boat to windward. of approach.

Another nudge with the bow-thruster brings the boat in close


7 enough for Alan to secure the centre spring. Once that’s on, Finally, on with the forward and aft springs and the
he’s going nowhere.
8 breast lines and it’s mission accomplished.

86 Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk


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Multi-point turns
Another approach is to use reverse gear simply as a means of
going astern, and to do your steering in ahead. Engage reverse,
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services
Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk 87
Cruising Notes We pay for your published cruising stories
Readers’ cruising destinations, near and far and harbour updates. Email pbo@timeinc.com
or write to the address at the top of page 5

Surprising Serifos found everything to be free because, as


a taverna waiter told me, ‘They haven’t
employed anyone to run it yet, but a man
Phil Johnson finds an Aegean gem with a new marina will come at five and turn on the water.’
The taverna opposite the quay offered

S
erifos sits between its cousins without the forced fender rubbing of some free showers if you ate in the restaurant.
Sifnos and Kithnos in the other places where we’d stayed. The showers, though, were a little unusual
Western Cyclades. The three The original mole is still there and now as they were in the apartment used by
small islands have much to offer, and forms part of the new complex, showing the staff. They did laundry too.
Serifos gave us a nice surprise as we just how much more space has been Posted by the new water and electric
entered the large sheltered bay which provided. Depths are good too, and the points, most of which were still wrapped
houses the main town and port of Livadi. water is clear enough to easily see the in plastic, were leaflets from a boat
Rather than the small mole we were bottom. We were there in late May and business offering everything from repairs
expecting, we found it had a brand new to spares and a whole range of services.
marina, or rather a substantial new town Handy to know if you’re looking for help
About the Author
quay with lazy lines at almost every berth, in these more isolated islands.
plus water and electricity. Phil Johnson is a
Clearly a lot of investment has gone former BBC and ITV Local landmarks
into this large concrete harbour, a sure journalist who enjoys Along the quay we found three
sign of an island on the up wanting Greece with his wife supermarkets including a Carrefour,
to attract more yachts to supplement Fiona on their HR34. which reflected the number of French
its income from the small hotel and He is the author of boats we saw in these islands. The shop
apartment visitors. The Little Blue Boat itself was a reasonable size for a small
The lazy lines were well spaced too, children’s books. port and had a great selection of fresh
giving modest-sized boats plenty of room fruit and vegetables. There were bakeries

88 Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk


Free
anchorage!
Clifden, Co. Galway

aleriasadventures.blogspot.co.uk
Picture-perfect Clifden
Left, Serifos and its wonderful new marina,

E
xperienced sailors Daria and
and above, approaching Livadi Marina
Alex Blackwell shared insight
to walk. It was a Waymarked route, into cruising the Wild Atlantic
number 1a taking us up paths and lots Way on the west coast of Ireland at
of steps before crossing the winding road PBO’s Ask the Experts Live event
which the bus takes. If it’s hot and you at Beaulieu Boat Jumble 2017.
have doubts about your fitness or health, The second of the free anchorages
take the bus – the journey is well worth it they recommended was Clifden,
and the views are stunning. The old kastro in the heart of Connemara, County
on top of Chora is quite breathtaking but Galway. It has a vast anchoring area,
not great for vertigo sufferers! but there’s a two-mile walk from
the harbour to the village. Although
Chora there are a lot of services, including
Inside Chora is a maze of narrow back shops, restaurants, pubs, hotels,
streets made up of tiny houses which an AIB bank, plus a large and very
lead you to a small square with a handful nice SuperValu supermarket right
of pleasant cafés and tavernas and at the first intersection, they’re not
a couple of arty shops. It’s lovely. Very easily accessible from the anchorage.
atmospheric and inviting, the staff at The cruising guide says it’s a mile
the taverna we used couldn’t have away – don’t believe it!
been more welcoming or helpful. Careful pilotage is required. Doolick
The walk back down gave us glimpses Rock is always showing but extends
inside tiny homes, which have seemingly two cables north of the part which
remained unchanged for generations. dries. Keep well clear of the
Wild succulents and prickly pear cacti neighbourhood of Coghan Rocks
adorned the hillside and lazy lizards which dry at springs and lie seven
scampered slowly away across the cables east of Carrigarana beacon.
paths as we disturbed their sunbathing. Having passed between these rocks,
Serifos, I was told, has two populations, the approach is fairly clear.
the old who live in Chora on the hill, and The website www.connemara.net
the incomers who run the businesses describes Clifden as a vibrant town
in the port. Some of these incomers, known as the capital of Connemara,
though, have been here a while. A waiter situated in a ‘unique and picturesque
told me if you drink the water, you’ll setting between the foothills of the
always come back, but beware he said: Twelve Bens and the Atlantic Ocean,’
‘I drank it 20 years ago and never left!’ it attracting thousands of visitors
You can understand why. The new marina every year.
makes the island a safe stopover for
a while or a good place to sit out a blow. ■ Read more at www.connemara.net
■ Watch Alex and Daria’s talk video
We’ll be back at http://po.st/Wild_Atlantic_Way
There are enough shops for provisions
and a good selection of tavernas in Chora. In association with
channel
islands
Free anchor
New service points still in their packaging The island’s interior walks keep you busy, Send in your free Bouley Bay, Jersey
age

and if marinas and quayside aren’t your anchorages and win


a pack of PBO playing
nearby and even a hardware shop in thing, the bay has plenty of space in which B ouley Bay is
nestled under
coast of Jersey.
a popular anchorag
the cliffs on the
e
north

cards for published


The
enter; a tidal harbour wide bay is easy to
moorings. Holding with deep water
is good on sand
south east of

the streets behind the seafront. to swing. Ferries run to neighbouring


the pier. Beware
school activity local dive
and rocks at the
end of the pier seaward

www.pbo.co.uk
during low tides.

suggestions
pebble beach The
shelves steeply.
good pubs ashore. There are a few

Livadi has a tourist information centre, islands and local tripper boats run S
SAND

and the woman who runs it was keen excursions to isolated beaches too. Email pbo@timeinc.com
to extol the virtues of the island’s walks, Serifos was pleasantly surprising with its or write to the address at the top of page 5
giving us free maps and advice. There new marina, the friendly locals, a choice Call 01202 440832 to order a pack:
was a bus to the capital, Chora, up the hill of well-stocked shops and just the hint just £4.99+P&P
a couple of miles away but we chose of more to come. We’ll certainly be back.

Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk 89


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Practical Boat Owner November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk 91


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92 Practical Boat Owner November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk


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Practical Boat Owner November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk 93


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94 Practical Boat Owner November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk


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Practical Boat Owner November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk 95


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96 Practical Boat Owner November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk


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Practical Boat Owner November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk 97


Ideas to get more air down the hatch
F
A B
A
C

G
E

A. Some hatches act as vents, but can leak in very bad seas. Small drips
H D drop between the coamings and out the drains. These also let air in.
B. Extra dorade vents can be added to the sides, and V-shaped props (C)
dropped in the gaps, will hold the lid up at an angle.
D. This hatch has a window to let in light and show there are security bars
to deter break-in.
E. Making it as a complete box and then
I sawing the lid off ensures a good fit.
F. Hinges can be made with removable pins,
so it will open fore or aft. Lift-off, or piano
J hinges have also been used. Catches should
be able to be opened from above and below.
G. But a strongback gives more security, and
a nut wheel will save banging your head on a
wing nut!

K
H. Pop-up tents with bug screens can be rigged at
M
any angle to keep rain out, or force air in.
I. These bars stop the sheets snagging the vent or
hatch, and can be rigged with a rain cover.
J. Black bug nets also reduce light levels and give
some privacy from other crews crossing the deck.
K. A quick sun/privacy fix, on a charter boat say,
is to stow the dinghy like this.

Whether forehatches should hinge fore or aft is a L


matter for debate, but windsails or windscoops
will help force air through them. There are many
types... L. This one has a vent to relieve pressure
in a gust. M. And some sailors copy the old sailing
ship practice of having tall vents, that can be left
on at sea. The blue bit is waterproof and secured
to the hatch with a bolt-rope and tape.

CROSSWORD SOLUTION: ACROSS: 7 Cutter, 8 Careen, 9 Burr, 10 Split rig, 11


Osmosis, 13 India, 15 Mitre, 16 Rolling, 18 Partners, 19 Tide, 21 Beacon, 22 Leeway.
DOWN: 1 Zulu, 2 Starboard tack, 3 Trysail, 4 Scull, 5 Breton plotter, 6 Meridian, 12 Sail
area, 14 Console, 17 Cevni, 20 Drag.

98 Practical Boat Owner 619 November 2017 • www.pbo.co.uk


Building Dreams

Available at your local


Stockist
www.westsystem.co.uk
for full list of stockists
Photo: Enavigo 38 Racer.
Hull is constructed
of cedar strip and
carbon fibre using
WEST SYSTEM epoxy

West System International


www.westsysteminternational.com | +44 (0) 1794 521111
info@westsysteminternational.com Search West System International @westsystemint
For your free User Manual & Product Catalogue please call or email Quoting Ref:PB19
Photo: ©Enavigo Yachts

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