SAIL

Four Things Chartering Taught Me

Source: Inspecting your tender is just as important as inspecting the big boat before you head out

In a typical year, I’m probably on charter at least once every other month, and during that time I’ve learned (and re-learned) a few valuable lessons. Common problems usually have to do with electrical systems, reefing and tenders. However, never underestimate human nature and what kind of mayhem it can introduce into an otherwise orderly vacation.

VOLTAGE IS KING (AND SO ARE THE BREAKERS)

Traditional wisdom says that once your engine is running, you can operate any electrical equipment aboard regardless of the battery level. However, that’s not entirely true.

You’re reading a preview, subscribe to read more.

More from Sail

Sail9 min read
Solar Updates
Sixteen years ago, I installed solar panels on my boat. At the time, the peak efficiency at converting sunlight to electricity was around 16%. Today’s panel technologies enable substantially more energy to be harvested from a given surface area, boos
Sail8 min read
Radio Active
“Charles, are you OK?” A pause. “Charles?!” Although a stranger to us, the person’s panic was universal. Something’s wrong, said the look my partner, Phillip, and I shared before darting our eyes to the splashing in the water by the power cat next to
Sail13 min read
Steady On
Peter Harken needs little introduction in the world of sailing. With his brother, Olaf, he started a shoestring business building collegiate and Olympic class dinghies (Vanguard Boats) in Wisconsin in 1968, which evolved into Harken Yacht Equipment a

Related Books & Audiobooks